brittanybanningguiderealestate

Events for Kids & Families Around Folsom & El Dorado Hills

EL DORADO HILLS

GREATER SACRAMENTO AREA

Wineries & Wine Tasting Around the Sacramento Region

ROSEVILLE, ROCKLIN, LINCOLN

Sacramento Concerts in the Park

Luxury Homes Are in High Demand

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Wed, 29 Jun 2022 21:07:22 GMT

As people realize their needs are changing, some are turning to luxury housing to find their dream home. Investopedia helps define what pushes a home into this category. In a recent article , they point out that a luxury home isn’t only defined by its price.

Location is also an important factor. It could be a condo at a desirable city address, a spacious home on the water, or one with access to luxury activities like arts and entertainment, high-end shopping and dining, and more. The home itself will also boast some of the finest features available.

According to the Luxury Market Report from the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing , there’s been a substantial increase in how many buyers are purchasing luxury homes over the past two years. It says:

“. . . North America recorded the fastest growth of demand during the first year of the pandemic. Also, demand has . . . consistently increased, and even in April 2022, we saw a higher volume of sales compared to 2021. ”

If you own a luxury home, it could be a great time to list your house today while demand is so high. But first, let’s understand where the demand is coming from.

What’s Driving the Heightened Buyer Demand for High-End Homes?

The same report says more people have reached a certain net-worth threshold, and that’s contributing to the increased interest in luxury housing:

“In 2020, we saw a 2.2% growth in the number of individuals with wealth of over $5 million in net value, but in 2021 that number grew by an outstanding 19.8%.

This total increase has resulted in the introduction of over 660,000 new individuals into the high net-worth bracket, which, combined with the existing affluent looking to both diversify and add new properties to their portfolio, provides a true insight into why the demand for luxury properties skyrocketed during 2021 and into 2022 .”

So, if you’re looking to make changes to your real estate portfolio or are looking to sell your current house, it may be a great time to list and benefit from the high demand for luxury homes today.

Bottom Line

If you own a luxury home and want to know how strong demand is in your area, let's connect so you can capitalize on current market conditions while buyer demand for upscale homes is so high.

Is the Housing Market Correcting?

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Wed, 29 Jun 2022 21:02:08 GMT

If you're following the news, all of the headlines about conditions in the current housing market may leave you with more questions than answers. Is the boom over? Is the market crashing or correcting? Here’s what you need to know.

The housing market is moderating compared to the last two years, but what everyone needs to remember is that the past two years were record-breaking in nearly every way. Record-low mortgage rates and millennials reaching peak homebuying years led to an influx of buyer demand. At the same time, there weren’t enough homes available to purchase thanks to many years of underbuilding and sellers who held off on listing their homes due to the health crisis.

This combination led to record-high demand and record-low supply, and that wasn’t going to be sustainable for the long term. The latest data shows early signs of a shift back to the market pace seen in the years leading up to the pandemic – not a crash nor a correction . As realtor.com says :

“The housing market is at a turning point . . . . We’re starting to see signs of a new direction, . . .”

Home Showings Then and Now

The ShowingTime Showing Index tracks the traffic of home showings according to agents and brokers. It’s a good indication of buyer demand. Here’s a look at that data going back to 2019 ( see graph below ):

The 2019 numbers give a good baseline of pre-pandemic demand ( shown in gray ). As the graph indicates, home showings skyrocketed during the pandemic ( shown in blue ). And while current buyer demand has begun to moderate slightly based on the latest data ( shown in green ), showings are still above 2019 levels.

And since 2019 was such a strong year for the housing market, this helps show that the market isn’t crashing – it’s just at a turning point that’s moving back toward more pre-pandemic levels.

Existing Home Sales Then and Now

Headlines are also talking about how existing home sales are declining, but perspective matters. Here’s a look at existing home sales going all the way back to 2019 using data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) ( see graph below ):

Again, a similar story emerges. The pandemic numbers ( shown in blue ) beat the more typical year of 2019 home sales ( shown in gray ). And according to the latest projections for 2022 ( shown in green ), the market is on pace to close this year with more home sales than 2019 as well.

It’s important to compare today not to the abnormal pandemic years, but to the most recent normal year to show the current housing market is still strong. First American sums it up like this:

“. . . today’s housing market looks a lot like the 2019 housing market, which was the strongest housing market in a decade at the time .”

Bottom Line

If recent headlines are generating any concerns, look at a more typical year for perspective. The current market is not a crash or correction. It’s just a turning point toward more typical, pre-pandemic levels. Let’s connect if you have any questions about our local market and what it means for you when you buy or sell this year.

Will Adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Increase Your Home's Value?

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Wed, 29 Jun 2022 20:37:31 GMT

An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a secondary residence located on the same property as a primary residence. It can be an in-law apartment that’s built in a converted garage or basement, a suite within a house, or a separate small home located in the backyard.

An Accessory Dwelling Unit Can Appeal to Buyers

Adding an accessory dwelling unit to your property can increase its value and help you get a higher price if you eventually sell. Demographic and societal changes have altered the needs of homebuyers. A property with an accessory dwelling unit can meet needs that a typical single-family house can’t.

The population is aging, and many senior citizens want to maintain their independence as long as possible, but still need help at times. Also, seniors often want to live close to their adult children so they can spend time with their grandchildren. For such a family, a property with an ADU can be the perfect choice.

A growing number of young adults are moving back home after college. An ADU can be a good option for a family with an adult child who wants to live at home after graduating, but who also wants the privacy that comes with having a separate apartment.

An Accessory Dwelling Unit Can Generate Rental Income

While you’re living in your home, an ADU can help you earn additional income. You can live in the main house and rent out the secondary residence on a long-term or short-term basis. After your kids move out, you might decide to downsize by moving into the apartment, then rent out the primary residence to help cover your living expenses or to save money for retirement.

A potential buyer may be looking for a house with an accessory dwelling unit as an investment opportunity. A buyer may be interested in living in the house and renting out the secondary residence to cover the mortgage and other expenses or may want to rent out both homes. Such a buyer may be willing to pay significantly more for a house with an ADU than for a single-family home.

Design an ADU Carefully

Before you begin to think about building an accessory dwelling unit or start envisioning how it should look, check your local zoning regulations. Find out whether ADUs are allowed where you live, what restrictions you will have to adhere to, and what type of permit will be required.

An accessory dwelling unit should complement the rest of the property. Its exterior design should be similar to that of the main house and should also fit in with other properties in the neighborhood. An architect who has experience designing ADUs can make sure that yours meets these criteria.

If you're considering adding an ADU to your home or purchasing a home with an ADU, we have additional resources that can help you navigate the process to get you the greatest ROI. Contact us for more info!

10 Staycation Ideas That Can Make Your Summer Sizzle

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Wed, 29 Jun 2022 20:27:39 GMT

Soaring gas prices are putting a damper on the Great American Road Trip, a summertime staple for millions of vacationing families.

But staying at home can be a lot less disappointing for families who think ahead and plan activities that are sure to be fun, fun, fun. Start with these ideas and see where your imagination takes you:

1) See the City – Do a little research and you may be surprised at the fun locales you have never toured right in your local area: museums, petting zoos, live theater, a host of nearby attractions. Make a list, set a schedule, use public transportation if available.

2) Cook International Menus – Families who cook together enjoy fabulous meals. Have each family member pick a destination from any place in the world. Research its food favorites, plan a menu, then shop and cook the meal together.

3) Take Virtual Tours – While you’re at it, find a travelog online, or search for one at the local library, for the country featured in your menu. Gather some spot-on snacks, settle on the sofa and enjoy a different virtual tour each evening.

4) Go Backyard Camping – Set up your tent, portable grill and camp lanterns and spend a few nights camping under the stars. Cook marshmallows, sing songs, take turns telling stories. The good news? There’s a bathroom nearby!

5) Do Some Stargazing – Lying in the grass and staring up at the millions of stars dotted across the sky can fill you with inner peace and wonder. Do some research in advance and be prepared to identify constellations and more.

6) Have Outdoor Movie Nights – Especially cool if you have a swimming pool, outdoor movies are a singular treat no matter where you are. Hang a sheet or set up a screen, lay your hands on an inexpensive projector and a speaker to connect to your laptop and enjoy a week of film classics under the stars.

7) Rent a Cool, Nearby AirBnB – Choose one within easy driving distance near a beach, lake, or scenic getaway. You won’t be on the road much, but a few days in a fun setting can open new paths to family fun even less than 50 miles from home.

8) Have a Spa Day – Take your kids, your girlfriends, or just yourself, but devote a whole day to getting pampered. If you’re on a budget, call up a local cosmetology school and see what they can offer for a group or just you and your children

9) Plan a Themed Road Trip – Choose easily accessible destinations nearby, but consider a theme (historic libraries, giant statues, bizarre restaurants), or simply visit parks, lakes, and oddball roadside attractions, all of which offer room to roam. No admission tickets or annoying reservations required! Admire your state's mountains or scenic coastline and enjoy the peace of the vistas before you.

10) Beach Excursion – If you live in the Sacramento area, you can get to the coast in as little as a 1.5 hour drive. Leave early in the morning so you have the whole day to relax on the beach. There's never a bad time to get your feet wet. Bring a picnic, blanket, swim goggles, and games to the beach, and set up a tent under which everyone can camp throughout the day. Kids will love running around in the salty air and gathering shells, and they'll have a chance to get physically active—spiking a volleyball, chasing a frisbee, or diving onto a raft. Don't forget to pack cold drinks and sunblock!

Where To Watch 4th Of July Fireworks Around Sacramento

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Wed, 29 Jun 2022 19:39:13 GMT

This year's 4th of July celebrations are in full effect! And what's one of the best things about Independence Day festivities? The fireworks! Here are some of the best places to watch fireworks in the Sacramento area this July 4, 2022.

FOLSOM PRO RODEO

One of our favorite events of the year is almost here! Join the annual Folsom Pro Rodeo for bull riding, barrel racing, drinks, food, and a spectacular fireworks show. See Details Here

July 1st – 3rd 2022
Where: Folsom Fairgrounds, 200 Wool St, Folsom

FOURTH ON THE FIELD

Watch the Sacramento fireworks from the River Cats stadium with food trucks, fireworks, and family fun! You don’t want to miss out on the River Cats annual Fourth on the Field celebration. There will be fun for the whole family with potato sack race, contests, food trucks live music and more! See Details Here

When: July 4th, 2022, 6pm-10pm
Where: River Cats Stadium

CARMICHAEL’S RED, WHITE & BLUE CELEBRATION

Celebrate Independence Weekend in Carmichael two days before the 4th on Saturday, July 2nd at the La Sierra Community Center. This all-day event is filled with fun from the start! The excitement starts at 6:30 pm with food, inflatables, a live band, and more. The night will conclude with fireworks at 9:30 pm. See Details Here

July 2nd, 2022, 6:30pm-10pm
Where: La Sierra Community Center, Carmichael

RANCHO CORDOVA'S ALL-AMERICA CELEBRATION

Rancho Cordova is a great place to be to celebrate Independence Day! This year it’s a two-day festival and parade celebrating the local community and our American heritage. It is the signature event for the community and will have carnival rides, drinks, food, music, and more! See Details Here

July 3-4, 2022
Where: Hagan Park

EL DORADO COUNTY FAIR ANNUAL 4TH OF JULY FAMILY BLAST

Bring your propane BBQs, footballs, other games, and coolers for El Dorado Counties Annual Fourth of July Family Blast! Featuring live music, a carnival, food and drink and fireworks at dusk at the Speedway! See Details Here

July 4th, 2022 3-10pm
Where: El Dorado County Fairgrounds, 100 Placerville Drive Placerville, CA 95667

LINCOLN 4TH OF JULY FOUNDATION CELEBRATION

Another great free Independence Day Party is coming to McBean Park in Lincoln. Enjoy a wide variety of food and fun for the whole family! See Details Here

July 4th, 1pm-10pm
Where: McBean Park in Lincoln, CA

ROSEVILLE FIREWORKS @ THE GROUNDS

Roseville’s Fourth of July Celebration is back! Come out for the annual 4th of July parade at 9am, games and foods at Royer park from 10am-1pm and then fireworks at the Grounds at dusk! See Details Here

July 4th, 2022 9am-10pm
Where: The Grounds, Roseville

May 2022 - Happening Around Town

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Wed, 18 May 2022 19:08:32 GMT

Summer is here! Enjoy the warmer weather with some of these great events happening around town during May and June.

Friday May 20 – July 29, 5 - 9 pm

Nothing signals summer like warm evenings enjoying music in the park. And California’s largest free music festival is finally back in Downtown Sacramento! For a great way to wind down a busy week, head to Cesar Chavez Plaza for Sacramento Concerts in the Park where you and the family will enjoy live music, food trucks, a beer and wine garden, art and more.

Thursday, May 26 – Sunday, may 29

Sacramento County Fair

The Sacramento County Fai r , located at Cal Expo , is fun, affordable, and safe for the whole family! Enjoy traditional county fair competitions, agriculture displays, hands-on family activities, a midway, festival-style entertainment, and specialty food. Don't forget to see traditional fair fun entertainment including local bands, hypnotists, petting zoos, and rescued exotic animals.

Saturday, June 4th 10:00 – 5:00 and Sunday, June 5th 11:00 – 4:00

El Dorado Hills Gardens of the Hills Tour

Gardening and nature enthusiasts will love the El Dorado Hills Gardens of the Hills Tour . This family-friendly tour features a unique variety of plants and blooms from five private gardens plus, the Sherwood Demonstration Garden where sixteen gardens will be open for guests to enjoy.

Even if you’re not totally into gardens, there’s plenty of fun to be had. Guests will be provided with a splendid sampling of local wines, pop-up boutiques with a variety of local artisans’ wares, a signature raffle, an online auction with fabulous quality items, and food for purchase. There will even be music for part of the time both days. Check the website for event updates. www.assistanceleague.org/sierra-foothills

Saturday, June 4th 1:00 – 5:00

Rocklin Brewfest

If you’re a beer aficionado, you won’t want to miss the Rocklin Brewfest !

Come on out to Johnson Springview Park , where 40+ local breweries will be on-site to let you sample their finest brews. The Brewfest will feature over 8 food trucks and 7 wineries for wine lovers!

This event is not merely about having a good time and enjoying some beer and wine. It is a fundraiser to help the Rotary Club of South Placer Foundation supply resources for community service projects.

Multiple dates in June

Folsom’s Harris Center

If you prefer to stay indoors where it’s cool and comfy, a musical or theatrical presentation at Folsom’s Harris Center may be just the thing. June promises to offer tons of entertainment with top-notch concerts like Opera Meets Broadway and the Broadway musical, Disney's Newsies (Sun, June 9 – Sun, July 17).

For more events and to buy tickets, visit Harris Center .

EVERY THURSDAY: JUNE 2 - AUGUST 25

Twilight Concert Series - Thursday Night Concerts, Folsom Historic District

The Twilight Concert Series , held right in the charming Historic District, has a reputation for being a premier place to enjoy quality music. Come out for a relaxing summer evening where you can listen to music from a wide variety of talented regional bands. Make sure to bring your beach chairs and a picnic. Or, if you prefer, pick up some food from one of the terrific restaurants along Sutter Street to eat while you watch the bands play.

The concerts take place from 7:00-10:00 p.m. at The Folsom Amphitheater .

______________________________

FOLSOM

Events for Kids & Families Around Folsom & El Dorado Hills

EL DORADO HILLS

GREATER SACRAMENTO AREA

Wineries & Wine Tasting Around the Sacramento Region

ROSEVILLE, ROCKLIN, LINCOLN

Forbes Global Properties Welcomes GUIDE Real Estat e

Are There More Homes Coming to the Market?

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Tue, 17 May 2022 21:00:47 GMT

The real estate market has experienced major inventory shortages over the past few years. However, early signs show the number of listings could be on the rise.

According to a recent survey from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), one of the top challenges buyers face in today’s housing market is finding a home that meets their needs. That’s largely because the inventory of homes for sale is so low today.

If you’re looking to buy a home , you may have noticed this yourself. But there is good news. Recent data shows more sellers are listing their houses this season, which may give you more options for your home search .

Early Signs Inventory May Be Growing

The latest data from realtor.com shows the number of listings coming onto the market, known in the industry as “new listings,” has increased since the start of the year (see graph below):

This indicates more sellers are listing their homes for sale each month this year. And according to realtor.com, this growth is expected to continue. Their research finds the majority of potential sellers plan to list their homes over the next six months . Realtor.com says:

“ . . . markets may see a noticeable bump in the number of homes for sale as we move through spring and into summer. A majority of homeowners planning to sell this year indicated that they aim to list in the next six months, with almost 10% having already placed their properties on the market.”

Homes Are Still Selling Quickly

But while new listings are increasing, it’s important to know they’re also selling quickly. The latest Realtors Confidence Index from NAR shows the median days on market for recently sold homes since the beginning of the year (see chart below). The time on market has decreased month-over-month. That means homes are selling even faster than they did the previous month.

What That Means for You

While a low-inventory market is difficult to navigate as a buyer , there is hope. The growing number of new listings and the expectation more sellers will list their homes in the coming months is great news if you’ve had a hard time finding a home that fits your needs . Just remember, those new listings are going fast. That means you’ll want to keep your foot on the gas and be ready to act if you find a home you love this season.

Your agent can help you stay on top of the latest listings in your area so you can find the home that’s right for you and submit your strongest offer as quickly as possible.

Bottom Line

If you’ve been having a hard time finding your dream home, stick with your search. More options are coming to market and your ideal home could be one of them. Let’s connect so you can stay up to date on the latest listings in our market, so you can be ready to move fast when you find the one that’s right for you.

What Every Summer Homebuyer Should Know

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Tue, 17 May 2022 20:26:40 GMT

If you plan on buying a home this summer, check out these tips to help you win the bid on your dream home.

There are many reasons to buy during the summer months. You’ll be in a new home before the school year begins, you will be able to move during pleasant weather and you’re more likely to meet neighbors as more people will be out and about. If you plan on buying a home this summer, you may need to arrange showings, inspections and the closing around your summer schedule, but it will pay off when you can enjoy the rest of the summer evenings in your new backyard. Read on for what you should know if you plan on buying a house this summer.

Be Realistic About Your Housing Goals
When the exterior is in pristine condition during the summer, it’s easy to be reeled in by a beautiful backyard pool or extensive garden. However, if you don’t want a pool’s responsibility or don’t have a green thumb, try to look past these eye-catching features and stick to your original buying plan.

The Summer Buying Season is an Extension of the Spring Buying Season
Especially in low-inventory markets, the summer buying season is a continuation of the competitive spring market. This means you should adhere to the same buying criteria as you would during the spring selling season. Here are some tips for navigating a low-inventory market, regardless of the season:

Put Your Best Offer Forward: Your first offer should be your best offer, and you won’t typically be able to negotiate much. Sellers usually accept the highest offer, often above the asking price.

Avoid Homes at the Top of Your Budget: If you don’t want to go over your budget, avoid looking at homes at the top of the range. This is because homes will often sell over the asking price, putting the house at a price you weren’t planning on paying.

Buy With Renovations in Mind: Buying a completely turnkey home isn’t wholly realistic in a low-inventory market. Viewing properties with a remodeler’s eye can help you see past imperfect layouts. Working with your broker, your offer may be more appealing if you indicate you won’t request repairs. Having a contractor, architect and designer lined up before purchasing a home will help you better visualize any changes you want to make and enable you to move quickly once your offer is accepted.

Be Ready to Move: Low-inventory markets typically have a quick turnover and shorter contract lengths. This means that buyers need to be able to close and move quickly. Therefore, when you put an offer on a property, you should have a packing and moving plan in place. Closing quickly could also make your offer more appealing to sellers.

Visit the Property During the Week and the Weekends
In the summer, more people are outside taking care of their home, socializing or engaging in leisure activities. It’s an excellent opportunity to assess the friendliness of neighbors and local activities. To understand how busy the neighborhood is, drive through it during the week and the weekend. If you’re looking for a quiet area where people keep to themselves and you see a bustling area, or vice versa, you may want to reconsider. Also, visit the local downtown. You’ll be able to gain a better feel of the area during the warmer months instead of visiting during a rainy April day.

If you are thinking about buying a home this summer, contact us ! We can help create a plan that will put you in the best position possible to buy your dream home.

How Homeownership Shields You from Inflation

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Mon, 02 May 2022 22:53:32 GMT

If you’re following along with the news today, you’ve likely heard about rising inflation. You’re also likely feeling the impact in your day-to-day life as prices go up for gas, groceries, and more. These rising consumer costs can put a pinch on your wallet and make you re-evaluate any big purchases you have planned to ensure they’re still worthwhile.

If you’ve been thinking about purchasing a home this year, you’re probably wondering if you should continue down that path or if it makes more sense to wait. While the answer depends on your situation, here’s how homeownership can help you combat the rising costs that come with inflation.

Homeownership Offers Stability and Security

Investopedia explains that during a period of high inflation, prices rise across the board. That’s true for things like food, entertainment, and other goods and services, even housing. Both rental prices and home prices are on the rise. So, as a buyer, how can you protect yourself from increasing costs? The answer lies in homeownership.

Buying a home allows you to stabilize what’s typically your biggest monthly expense: your housing cost. If you get a fixed-rate mortgage on your home, you lock in your monthly payment for the duration of your loan, often 15 to 30 years. James Royal, Senior Wealth Management Reporter at Bankrate, says :

“ A fixed-rate mortgage allows you to maintain the biggest portion of housing expenses at the same payment. Sure, property taxes will rise and other expenses may creep up, but your monthly housing payment remains the same.”

So even if other prices rise, your housing payment will be a reliable amount that can help keep your budget in check. If you rent , you don’t have that same benefit, and you won’t be protected from rising housing costs.

Use Home Price Appreciation to Your Benefit

While it’s true rising mortgage rates and home prices mean buying a house today costs more than it did a year ago, you still have an opportunity to set yourself up for a long-term win. Buying now lets you lock in at today’s rates and prices before both climb higher.

In inflationary times, it’s especially important to invest your money in an asset that traditionally holds or grows in value. The graph below shows how home price appreciation outperformed inflation in most decades going all the way back to the seventies – making homeownership a historically strong hedge against inflation (see graph below):

So, what does that mean for you? Today, experts say home prices will only go up from here thanks to the ongoing imbalance in supply and demand. Once you buy a house, any home price appreciation that does occur will be good for your equity and your net worth . And since homes are typically assets that grow in value (even in inflationary times), you have peace of mind that history shows your investment is a strong one.

Bottom Line

If you’re ready to buy a home, it may make sense to move forward with your plans despite rising inflation. If you want expert advice on your specific situation and how to time your purchase, let’s connect.

Forbes Global Properties Welcomes GUIDE Real Estate

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Wed, 20 Apr 2022 00:31:38 GMT

We are so excited to share some HUGE News...Our company, GUIDE Real Estate has become an exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties ! ��‼️⁠
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Over the last year, our team has been working day and night to improve our systems and marketing to create an elevated customer experience for our clients. With access to exclusive resources and a global network of brokers, investors and individuals -- not to mention the added recognition of a brand synonymous with luxury and prestige -- we will be able to offer a whole new level of service to our buyers and sellers. ✨⁠
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We can't wait to see where this journey takes us and we look forward to sharing the story with you! ⁠

GUIDE Real Estate In the News!⁠

The Best Home Improvements to Make in 2022

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Wed, 20 Apr 2022 00:14:51 GMT

If you are considering some home improvement projects this year, it’s smart to know which projects stand a better chance of giving you a return on your investment (ROI).

This year will be a banner year for home improvements, according to Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies, which estimates homeowner spending on improvements and repairs could climb to $430 billion.

But with supply chain issues and labor shortages driving up costs, it’s smart to know which projects stand a better chance of giving you a return on your investment (ROI). Here are recommendations based on ROI from a consensus of cost vs. value reports.

Replacing the Garage Door – It can make a startling improvement to the look of your home, and the average garage door replacement costing just over $3,900 will maintain a resale value of more than $3,660.

Adding Exterior Stone Veneer – It may cost as much as $10,000 to replace existing siding with a stone veneer on the bottom third of your home. But doing so can make a meaningful difference, typically recouping more than 92% of its cost at resale.

Remodeling the Kitchen – If you’re thinking of enhancing the space, you should know that even a minor kitchen remodel, at an average cost of around $26,000, typically recoups more than 72% of that when it’s time to sell.

Installing New Windows – They will make a difference on your utility bills now, and when you’re ready to sell, those new vinyl windows costing an average of $18-20,000 will net a resale value of $13,297.

Adding a Deck – It seems like everyone who didn’t have a deck wanted to add one during the pandemic. But they aren’t just a shelter-in-place hot trend. At an average investment of $16,766, you can expect to recoup more than 65% at sale time.

Putting in a Steel Door – Not all home improvements are expensive. A new steel front door typically runs just over $2,000, and it maintains a good chunk of that value—as much as 65% or about $1,350

5 Tips to Get Top Dollar for Your Home

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Tue, 19 Apr 2022 23:30:02 GMT

Here are some tips for getting your home ready to sell for the highest price possible.

Not sure what to do to get the most money possible out of the sale of your home? Here are 5 quick tips for getting your home in “show-ready” condition before putting your home on the market to increase your chances of receiving the highest price possible for your home.

1. Declutter - Decluttering and organizing your space will go a long way in appealing to potential buyers. When a home is clutter-free and buyers can focus on the actual home instead of on the knick-knacks, junk and overflowing closets

2. Depersonalize – Again, help buyers focus on the home instead of on who lives there. This means putting away the majority of your framed photos, bulletin boards, sports memorabilia and personal items (think: photo albums, magazines, toys, equipment, awards, etc) throughout the home. Leave a few nice, framed photos around the house to make the home appear inviting and lived in.

3. Sniff Test – Hopefully this goes without saying, but we’ll say it anyway…Get rid of bad smells! Start with the obvious - take out the trash, empty the litter boxes and clean out the refrigerator. But don’t stop there. Often, we get “nose blind” to the off-putting smells in our homes. Do your own sniff test, then have an honest friend or family member come over for a second opinion sniff.

4. Deep Clean - Don’t let bad smells, dirty floors or dusty surfaces make a bad one on a potential buyer. Before listing your home (and throughout the selling process), give your home a deep clean. This means cleaning toilets, wiping down surfaces, mopping floors, cleaning rugs and scrubbing bathrooms. Consider having your home and carpets professionally cleaned.

5. Curb Appeal – We all know first-impressions are important. The front of your home is the first thing buyers will see. Curb appeal is how a home looks from the outside, and it can have a big impact on how much a buyer is willing to pay for a house. Some of the things you can do to get the front of your home in great shape include:

Mow and edge the lawn
Plant seasonal flowers or other plants
Trim bushes and get rid of any fallen leaves
Pressure wash the driveway and walkways
Touch up exterior paint
Paint or replace the front door
Wash your windows
Clean or replace fixtures

7 Times You Shouldn't Be a Cheapskate

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Tue, 19 Apr 2022 21:26:37 GMT

Being cheap doesn't necessarily mean being smart, and paying less doesn't always mean getting more value for the money .

These days, as the price of gasoline and everyday commodities soar, it’s tempting to look for bargains—and in many cases, like choosing generic instead of branded, pinching pennies is not only smart, it’s essential.

Here are seven things well worth spending more of your money on now, that will be worth it in the long run.

1. Shoes – If you’re on your feet a lot, or into running or walking, you need a good pair of shoes. Cheap shoes not only wear out faster, but often lack the arch support and cushioning that protect the bones and muscles in your feet.

2. Paint – Painting a room is tough, time-consuming work, and using cheap paint often means having to paint two coats or more instead of one to get good coverage, or needing to paint again in a year.

3. Home Repairs – Getting more than one bid for a job is wise, but for most home repairs, choosing quality materials and a reputable contractor who is bonded and insured can protect against costly mistakes and/or poor wear.

4. Kitchen Goods – Higher-quality kitchen items simply have a longer life span. A cheap blender won’t last long, and a high-quality kitchen knife will outlive a cheap one by 10 years.

5. Mattresses – When it comes to the mattress you’ll spend each of your nights on for years, buy the best one you can afford. A good night’s sleep affects your life, work and health, and saving money here may leave you needing to invest in a better one far sooner than you’d planned.

6. Red-Eye Flights – Saving $50 by booking a red-eye flight may seem like a good idea, but it can cost you more to get to the airport, and unless you are good at sleeping through anything, you may get to your destination red-eyed yourself and too tired to enjoy your trip.

7. Your Retirement – Not making the full contributions to an IRA or 401(k) may leave more income in your pocket monthly, but you’re leaving money on the table and not preparing wisely for your future. You want to be sure you’re covered when the time comes, so this is no place to skimp.

Where Are Mortgage Rates Headed?

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 23:20:53 GMT

What to expect with interest rates this year and what it means for you.

There’s never been a truer statement regarding forecasting mortgage rates than the one offered last year by Mark Fleming , Chief Economist at First American:

“You know, the fallacy of economic forecasting is: Don't ever try and forecast interest rates and or, more specifically, if you're a real estate economist mortgage rates, because you will always invariably be wrong. ”

Coming into this year, most experts projected mortgage rates would gradually increase and end 2022 in the high three-percent range. It’s only April, and rates have already blown past those numbers.

Freddie Mac announced last week that the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is already at 4.72%.

Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.com, tweeted on March 31 :

“Continuing on the recent trajectory, would have mortgage rates hitting 5% within a matter of weeks. . . . ”

Just five days later, on April 5, the Mortgage News Daily quoted a rate of 5.02%.

No one knows how swiftly mortgage rates will rise moving forward. However, at least to this point, they haven’t significantly impacted purchaser demand. Ali Wolf, Chief Economist at Zonda, explains :

“ Mortgage rates jumped much quicker and much higher than even the most aggressive forecasts called for at the end of last year , and yet housing demand appears to be holding steady.”

Through February, home prices , the number of showings , and the number of homes receiving multiple offers all saw a substantial increase. However, much of the spike in mortgage rates occurred in March. We will not know the true impact of the increase in mortgage rates until the March housing numbers become available in early May.

Rick Sharga, EVP of Market Intelligence at ATTOM Data, recently put rising rates into context:

“Historically low mortgage rates and higher wages helped offset rising home prices over the past few years, but as home prices continue to soar and interest rates approach five percent on a 30-year fixed rate loan, more consumers are going to struggle to find a property they can comfortably afford. ”

While no one knows exactly where rates are headed, experts do think they’ll continue to rise in the months ahead. In the meantime, if you’re looking to buy a home, know that rising rates do have an impact. As rates rise, it’ll cost you more when you purchase a house. If you’re ready to buy, it may make sense to do so sooner rather than later.

BOTTOM LINE:

Mark Fleming got it right. Forecasting mortgage rates is an impossible task. However, it’s probably safe to assume the days of attaining a 3% mortgage rate are over. The question is whether that will soon be true for 4% rates as well.

April 2022 - Happening Around Town

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 22:02:54 GMT

Mark your calendar with some of these great events happening in your area during April and May!

Saturday, April 23

Sacramento Community Earth Day Celebration

Join hundreds from Sacramento in celebrating Earth Day with a city-wide litter cleanup event. The theme is Invest “In Our Planet,” because a green future is prosperous. This Earth Day Celebration is a free event geared towards all ages. There will be outdoor activities for kids, such as watercolor painting, seed planting, and learning about how we can all protect our waterways from trash and pollution.

The event will also feature a concert by Inner Soul , recently named one of the top bands in the Sacramento region by KCRA Channel 3.

Saturday, April 23 and Sunday, April 24

20th Annual Folsom Garden Club Garden Tour “Gardens of Folsom”

The Folsom Garden Club is holding their 20th Annual Garden Tour from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm both days where you can tour seven beautiful private gardens. As you meander along the paths, be sure to take a moment and watch guest artists who will be painting there.

Master Gardeners will also be on hand to answer questions, and a variety of plants will be available for sale at the Historic Murer House . Other attractions will include a bake sale, an on-site food truck, and a Raffle where winners will walk away with spectacular prizes.

SUNDAY, APRIL 24

Historic Folsom Spring Craft Fair

Mark your calendar for the Historic Folsom Spring Craft Fair . More than 200 vendors will be at this FREE event, so it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy the beautiful spring weather while looking for one-of-a-kind gifts for a birthday, graduation or Mother's or Father's Day.

When you get hungry, you can grab a snack from a food vendor or sit down to eat at one of the amazing, independently owned restaurants you’ll find along the streets of Old Town Folsom.

SUNDAY, MAY 1

Folsom 2022 Spring Concert Series

If your idea of a fun is an afternoon spent outdoors listening to great music, this one’s for you. Come out for a relaxing Sunday afternoon, bring picnics, beach chairs and best friends and enjoy one of the first concerts in Folsom’s Spring Concert Series . It takes place from 1:00-3:00 at Zittel Family Amphitheater , nestled right in the charming Folsom Historic District.

This concert by Revolution Beat, Sacramento’s Beatle Tribute Band , will transport you down memory lane to a very special time in the 60’s when the Beatles invaded America.

Thursday, May 5

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

Even if you’re not from Mexico, chances are you still celebrate Cinco de Mayo. After all, who can resist a great margarita? Cinco de Mayo is a bueno day to celebrate Mexican/American culture— which we have in abundance in the Sacramento region.

You’ll have fun whether you stay home to enjoy tacos and drink Mexican beer, or you go to your favorite cantina for margaritas and burritos. If you don’t already have a spot picked out to celebrate, you don’t have to miss out on the festivities. Just check out one of these Cinco de Mayo Events happening on May 5 and get your fiesta going.

Saturday, May 7 and SUNDAY, MAY 8

El Dorado Hills Art, Beer & Wine Festival

The Annual Art, Beer & Wine Festival is a free event featuring fine artists, award-winning craft breweries pouring unlimited tastings each day, wines from some of the area's most prestigious wineries, delicious food, live music, and more. This fabulous two-day community event runs from 11am - 5pm and will take place in El Dorado Hills Town Center over Mother’s Day weekend.

For those looking for an evening in the park, Town Center also offers a beautiful outdoor amphitheater with picnic tables.

Tuesday, May 17 through Sunday, May 22

Tootsie Broadway Musical

Presenting Tootsie the Musical by Broadway Sacramento at SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center in Sacramento.

Never say we don’t have a happening cultural scene in Sacramento. For fans of theatre, this hilarious musical will transport you straight to Broadway!

Call it “musical comedy heaven” (Rolling Stone). Call it “the most uproarious new musical in years!” (The Hollywood Reporter). Call it Tootsie! This laugh-out-loud love letter to the theatre tells the story of a talented but difficult actor who struggles to find work until one show-stopping act of desperation lands him the role of a lifetime. “In these turbulent times, when the world seems out of balance, we need a place to let the good times roll,” raves Rolling Stone.

_______________________________________

Fun events are constantly popping up throughout the Sacramento Region. We all have different ideas of what’s fun, so it’s nice to have plenty of options. Check out these local sites where you’re sure to find something to please everyone in the family:

FOLSOM

Events for Kids & Families Around Folsom & El Dorado Hills

EL DORADO HILLS

GREATER SACRAMENTO AREA

Wineries & Wine Tasting Around the Sacramento Region

ROSEVILLE, ROCKLIN, LINCOLN

16th Annual St. Paddy's Day Pub Crawl

March 2022 - Happening Around Town

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 20:34:20 GMT

Everyone has a different idea of what’s fun, so it’s nice to have lots of options. Check out these upcoming events & things to do around the Folsom, El Dorado Hills and surrounding communities. You’re sure to find fantastic activities for every member of your family.

SUNDAY, MARCH 13 ^TH

Spring Forward

Even though it’s not the official first day of spring, daylight saving time will occur on Sunday, March 13 at 2:00 AM.

SATURDAY, MARCH 12 ^th

Spring is a great time of year to get out and have some fun before the heat of summer rolls around. And there are so many spring-related things to do in Sacramento it’s ‘blooming amazing!’ (Pun intended. ��). Besides flowers, what says spring better than St. Patrick’s Day? If you like green and beer—or perhaps green beer —be sure to join in on the 16th Annual St. Paddy's Day Pub Crawl .

Spring Food and Craft Fair

If you want for something to do with the family, load up the gang and head to Elk Grove for the Spring Food and Craft Fair where there will be more than 80 amazing food and craft vendors. There’s food, there’s shopping, it’s FREE, and it’s kid-friendly—it doesn’t get much better!

21st Annual Folsom Wine & Jazz Night

Sacramento doesn’t have a corner on the market when it comes to spring festivities. It’s a short drive up the hill to Folsom, a charming town that’s bustling with events like the 21st Annual Folsom Wine & Jazz Night . This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy an evening of wine and jazz while supporting the terrific musicians of Folsom High School and Sutter and Folsom Middle Schools.

SUNDAY, MARCH 20TH

First Day of Spring

With lingering cold nights and chilly mornings, it feels like winter is here to stay, but bright skies and blooming trees are a sure sign that spring is just around the corner. The official first day of spring is Sunday, March 20.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30TH

Billie Eilish Concert – Golden One Center

If your idea of a fun way to celebrate spring is more along the lines of going to a concert, look no more. Fans of Grammy Award winner, Billie Eilish will certainly want to head to the Golden One Center to see the singer perform in person.

SUNDAY, APRIL 24 ^TH

Historic Folsom Spring Craft Fair

When you get hungry, you can grab a snack from a food vendor or sit down to eat at one of the amazing, independently owned restaurants you’ll find along the streets of Old Town Folsom.

Events are regularly popping up throughout the Sacramento Region. We all have different ideas of what’s fun, so it’s nice to have lots of options. Check out these local sites where you’re sure to find something to please everyone in the family:

FOLSOM

Events for Kids & Families Around Folsom & El Dorado Hills

EL DORADO HILLS

GREATER SACRAMENTO AREA

Wineries & Wine Tasting Around the Sacramento Region

ROSEVILLE, ROCKLIN, LINCOLN

How to Extend the Life of Your Home's Major Systems

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 20:18:06 GMT

Expand the life of your home's major systems with these tips. Here is a checklist of simple things you can do each season to keep your house operating at peak efficiency.

How often do you perform maintenance on your home's major systems and appliances? Do you know what is required to keep the systems up and running?

If you are like many homeowners, you probably don't think about these things enough. Here are a few tips categorized by season to help you extend the life of your home's major systems and appliances.

WINTER

Have your furnace serviced every year by a professional for efficiency and safety.
Wood burning stove connector pipes and chimneys need to be looked at by a certified chimney sweep every year.
Smell around appliances for gas odors.
Insulate your pipes in your home's attic and crawl spaces.
Clear out debris in your gutters, downspouts, storm drains and window wells.
Clean out your dryer's exhaust duct, damper and the space under the dryer.
Clean your kitchen exhaust hood and air filters.
Inspect the water hoses on your washer, refrigerator, icemaker and dishwasher for bubbles and cracks.

SPRING

Install a lightning protection system on your home.
Ensure that all the light bulbs in your fixtures are the correct wattage.
Have a professional inspect your HVAC system.
Trim shrubs and plants near your unit to ensure there is a proper air flow and circulation.
Look for roof damage.
Protect your home from sewer or drain backup losses.
Inspect your cold and hot water supply hoses for cracks and deterioration.
Drain sediment from the water heater tank.
Check the shutoff valve on each plumbing device to ensure they are working properly.

SUMMER

Have an annual system maintenance performed before air conditioning season starts.
Keep your curtains shut while there are peak temperatures.
Close registers in rooms not in use.
Use your exhaust fans when cooking to eliminate excess heat and humidity.
Set your thermostat to 78 degrees.
Caulk and weatherstrip all of your windows to close spaces.
Close the flue to your fireplace.
Move your furniture away from registers, radiators and vents.
Change filters on forced air units.
Use compact fluorescent lights to lower electricity bills.

FALL

Drain the in-ground sprinkler systems.
Protect your home from frozen pipes.
Have a professional check out your heating system before winter.
Flush out sediments from your hot water heater and test the pressure relief valve.
Have a certified chimney sweep clean out your flues and inspect your fireplace.
Caulk around the doors and windows to reduce your heating costs.
Insulate all outdoor faucets, pipes in unheated garages and pipes in your crawl spaces.

Extending the life of your home's major systems is a great way to protect your home's value, as well. Learn more by contacting us today.

The Power of Equity

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 20:03:53 GMT

You’ve probably heard that the main benefit of owning a home is building equity. But what does that mean, and how can it work for you?

There are plenty of reasons to apply for a mortgage loan and buy a home: You’ll have a place to put down roots for you and your family. You’ll feel more connected to your community when you own. You’ll realize financial benefits at tax time. But one of the best financial reasons to own a home? You can build equity.

What Is Equity?

Equity is the difference between what you owe on your mortgage loan and the current value of your home. If your home is worth $200,000 and you owe $120,000 on your mortgage, you have $80,000 of equity.

Profit Possible When Selling

Equity comes with several benefits. Say you’re ready to sell your home. The more equity you have in it, the larger your profit may be when you sell. You’ll walkaway with more money if you sell your home after you’ve built equity.

Here’s an example: Say your home is worth $210,000. If you sell it for that amount and you only owe $100,000 on your mortgage, you’ll have $110,000 of equity. Of course, you’ll use some of that to pay your real estate agent’s commission and to handle closing/settlement costs. But the more equity you have, the more money you may earn when selling.

Tap Your Home’s Equity

If you have enough equity, you can borrow against it in the form of home equity loans or home equity lines of credit. You can use the funds from these products to pay for anything. Many homeowners use loans and lines of credit to pay for the costs of major home renovations or remodels. Others use it to pay down high-interest-rate credit card debt. Others might turn to home equity loans or lines of credit to help pay for their children’s college tuition.

The big benefit here? Home equity loans and lines of credit tend to come with lower interest rates. That makes borrowing against your equity one of the cheapest ways to borrow money.

You Can Eliminate PMI

Private mortgage insurance (PMI) is a form of insurance that protects lenders in case you stop making your payments. You’ll pay this insurance every month if you take out a conventional mortgage loan, one not insured by a government agency, and you don’t come up with a down payment of at least 20% of your home’s purchase price. PMI varies, but depending on the size of your loan it can cost you hundreds of dollars a month.

Once you have at least 20% equity in your home, you can ask your lender to remove PMI from your mortgage. And when you build at least 22% equity with a conventional loan, your lender will automatically remove PMI.

If you are curious about how much equity your home has gained, contact us for a complimentary Equity Review Report.

4 Not-So-Terrible Ways to Jumpstart Spring Cleaning

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 19:51:06 GMT

It's almost time for spring cleaning - what are some of the best tips and tricks for getting a jumpstart on this must-do home maintenance activity?

A timely post, as we are spring cleaning this week. Cleaning is not a favorite pastime of ours, so we needed some motivation to get moving. Fortunately, we've been reading up on FengShui and how clutter disrupts the energy flow. Here are our four not-so-terrible ways to jumpstart spring cleaning.

1. Commit to a garage sale or donation event - This drastic measure works for us because once we commit, we're accountable and have a deadline. Working around a theme, say clothes or household items used to raise money, is helpful as well. Producing particular bits requires cleaning only one section of the house, but it does engage cleaning mode.

2. Phone a friend for moral support - For whatever reason, spring cleaning isn't as horrendous for when friends are around to talk to while we tackle stacks. The distraction of chatting while sorting might be part of it. Whatever it is, having moral support helps. Catch up on your friend's comings and goings and by the end of her beach vacation nightmare story, you have a clean pantry/closet/bookshelf/carpet. It's like magic.

3. Get inspired with upcycling - Upcycling is one of our favorite home trends just because of the sheer innovation that accompanies this recycling niche. Look around, see what you don't use, and get on the upcycle bandwagon. You'll save money, time, and the landfills by reconstituting a household item that has fallen by the wayside.

If upcycling is not your thing, sell stuff on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. Take nice photos of the item you are selling and price it a few dollars under the average for similar items. You'll sell things quickly and the best part, the buyers will come pick it up from you - one less thing to worry about taking to Goodwill or the dump.

4. Extend your New Year's Resolutions to your home - 'Tis the season for quitting this, losing that, and all-around improvement. Even though we are almost into the second quarter of 2022, re-visit your new year's resolutions. You were in the mindset of trimming, cutting, removing, things from your life. Apply this to your spring cleaning. Take this opportunity to look around and see what you can eliminate from your surroundings.

True story: Britt and her husband have been remodeling their home over the last couple years. As if that weren't enough, they decided to have another baby smack in the middle of the renovation. (don't recommend BTW). During this time, the garage became the "catch-all" for extra construction materials and random things they (Britt) would shove in there before guests would visit.

Once the remodel was done, the disaster state of the garage was anxiety inducing. For the better part of a year Britt and her husband would complain and stress about not being able to find things or park the cars in the garage. Finally, they bit the bullet and spent a month worth of weekends organizing, purging, donating, etc. Once the garage was back to functioning the way it was intended, both of them, especially Jordan, experienced a mental relief they weren't expecting.

The moral of the story is, when our surroundings are cluttered, often times, so are our minds. Although spring cleaning is not the most exciting activity, it will do more for you and your life than just having a clean home.

Are Home Prices on the Decline?

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Mon, 07 Mar 2022 22:04:31 GMT

The #1 Reason To Sell Your House Today

Almost every industry is currently struggling with supply chain disruptions. This also applies to the current U.S. housing market, where buyer demand far exceeds housing supply.

Purchaser demand is very strong right now. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) just released their latest Existing Home Sales Report which reveals that sales surged in January. Existing home sales rose to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 6.5 million – an increase of 6.7% from the prior month, with sales up in all regions. However, there’s one big challenge.

Inventory Is at an All-Time Low

Because purchaser demand is so high, the market is running out of available homes for sale. The above-mentioned report states that the current months’ supply of inventory of homes for sale has fallen to 1.6 months. This prompts Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR, to say:

“The inventory of homes on the market remains woefully depleted, and in fact is currently at an all-time low. ”

Earlier this month, realtor.com released their inventory data for January. It helps confirm this point. Here’s a graph comparing inventory levels for January over the last six years:

As the graph shows, new listings coming on the market have decreased over the last four years (shown in blue in the graph). The graph also reveals that carry-over inventory has plummeted in recent years. This is because listings are now sold so quickly, they don’t stay on the market long enough to carry over month-to-month (shown in green in the graph). In other words, homes are not staying on the market for months as they had prior to the pandemic. In the report mentioned above, NAR reveals that:

“Seventy-nine percent of homes sold in January 2022 were on the market for less than a month .”

Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, explains it like this:

“A higher velocity of sales (lower [Days on Market]) helps to explain a housing market characterized by both higher sales & lower inventory. Many resale transactions are happening so quickly that they ‘flow’ in & then out of the ‘stock’ between the fixed monthly measurement of inventory.”

What Does This Mean for Sellers?

Anyone thinking of putting their home on the market shouldn’t wait. A seller will always negotiate the best deal when demand is high and supply is limited. That’s exactly the situation in the real estate market today.

Later this year, inventory (and by extension, your competition) will increase as many homeowners are waiting to put their homes on the market in the spring and early summer. And we may see a cooling-off in buyer demand as interest rates continue to climb.

In addition, Len Kiefer, Deputy Chief Economist at Freddie Mac, says :

“Housing starts start off 2022 strong, just edging out 2021 for most in January since 2006.”

As these newly built homes are completed, they will also become competition for your house. This gives you a tremendous opportunity right now. Don’t wait for that increase in competition in your area.

If you want to sell in 2022 and are ready to start the process, today is the day to list your house.

Bottom Line

If you’re ready to sell, let’s connect to get your house on the market while today’s inventory situation is in your favor.

TRENDING: Are Open Floor Plans Going Out of Style?

britt@banninggroup.com (Brittany Banning) — Mon, 07 Mar 2022 21:12:27 GMT

For a long time, open floor plans seemed to be the No. 1 requirement for new homes. But lately, we've seen the trend reverse. What will take its place? Check out the new alternatives to the "open concept" layout.

Open concepts were all the rage for a long time. Today, we're seeing more families looking for separate spaces to delineate various aspects of their lives.

Data from the American Institute of Architects supports that we are currently experiencing a “cooling-off” trend towards open floor plans. As part of its quarterly Home Design Trends survey, AIA measures whether architecture firms report an increase or decrease in requests for open concept layouts. In 2018, the percentage of firms saying open concept requests were increasing was at 56%. By 2021, it was down to 33%. That’s a 41% drop in just 3 years.

The drastic changes brought on by the pandemic could be influencing some of this shift. As people conduct work and school from home, they need spaces that are conducive to that, which means more walls and separation.

Another factor that may be contributing to the decline in demand for an open floorplan is the increasing number of multi-generational households in recent years. Children are living at home longer and elderly parents are moving in with their adult children, often to avoid the expense of senior housing and care facilities.

As preferences have been shifting to a layout with more versatility, designers and builders have started to take note. Many new home developments have started building homes with features like, bedrooms on the first floor instead of all rooms on the upper level, dedicated home offices and bonus rooms that can be used as a playroom or home gym. As people spend more time at home, these trends will become more popular.

If you've been debating what floor plan is right for you, you may want to consider the alternatives to open floor plans. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

A Living Room Retreat

In an open-concept home, the living space and kitchen are all part of one large area. Today, we're seeing more people want to retreat to a living room space separate from the other areas of the home. Some homeowners choose a hybrid approach with a pass-through or tucked-in kitchen to separate the spaces.

Multipurpose Dining Room

The formal dining room went out of fashion with the open floor plan's rise, but it's making a comeback. The big trend we see today is the increased use of a multipurpose dining room space. It may be used for a library, gaming space, gathering area or more.

Rezoning Open Space

If you do have an open space and want to provide a more zoned feel, there are ways you can adjust your furniture to give the impression you want. Use dividers to section off areas of the room. You can use the positioning of furniture, such as a sofa in the middle of the room rather than against the wall, to rezone open space.

Nooks and Pods

Another popular trend is the use of nooks and pods to give small, intimate private spaces a showcase in your home. Reading nooks, for example, can be built within an existing bay window structure. Or using unconventional space, such as the area under a staircase, can give you a private feeling.

What floor plan do you envision for your new home? Contact us today to explore the possibilities!

What’s Going To Happen With Home Prices This Year?

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 22:15:14 GMT

After almost two years of double-digit increases, many experts thought home price appreciation would decelerate or happen at a slower pace in the last quarter of 2021. However, the latest Home Price Insights Report from CoreLogic indicates while prices may have plateaued, appreciation has definitely not slowed. The following graph shows year-over-year appreciation throughout 2021. December data has not yet been released.

As the graph shows, appreciation has remained steady at around 18% over the last five months.

In addition, the latest S&P Case-Shiller Price Index and the FHFA Price Index show a slight deceleration from the same time last year – it's just not at the level that was expected. However, they also both indicate there’s continued strong price growth throughout the country. FHFA reports all nine regions of the country still experienced double-digit appreciation. The Case-Shiller 20-City Index reveals all 20 metros had double-digit appreciation.

Why Haven’t We Seen the Deeper Deceleration Many Expected?

Experts had projected the supply of housing inventory would increase in the last half of 2021 and buyer demand would decrease, as it historically does later in the year. Since all pricing is subject to supply and demand, it seemed that appreciation would wane under those conditions.

Buyer demand, however, did not slow as much as expected, and the number of listings available for sale dropped instead of improved. The graph below uses data from realtor.com to show the number of available listings for sale each month, including the decline in listings at the end of the year.

Here are three reasons why the number of active listings didn’t increase as expected:

1. There hasn’t been a surge of foreclosures as the forbearance program comes to an end.

2. New construction slowed considerably because of supply chain challenges.

3. Many believed more sellers would put their houses on the market once the concerns about the pandemic began to ease. However, those concerns have not yet disappeared. A recent article published by com explains:

“Before the omicron variant of COVID-19 appeared on the scene, the 2021 housing market was rebounding healthily from previous waves of the pandemic and turned downright bullish as the end of the year approached. . . . And then the new omicron strain hit in November, followed by a December dip in new listings. Was this sudden drop due to omicron, or just the typical holiday season lull?”

No one knows for sure, but it does seem possible.

Bottom Line

Home price appreciation might slow (or decelerate) in 2022. However, based on supply and demand, you shouldn’t expect the deceleration to be swift or deep.

Design Trends: This Years Hottest Colors

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 23:06:33 GMT

In recent years, gray has reigned supreme as a favorite paint color for homeowners. We absolutely love the cool, clean look of gray, especially when contrasted by white. However, so many people have used it throughout their homes that there seems to be a lot of sameness in the houses we see. After a few years of gray dominating the home décor scene, we must admit we’re ready for a bit of a color changeup, and it looks like 2022 is the year for it.

According to HGTV , this year we'll be seeing a lot of beautiful, serene paint colors working their way into home fashion. And they predict that Benjamin Moore’s October Mist, a soft green/gray color, will be the “new gray.”

If you recently painted your home, you‘re probably not ready to make a drastic change. The good news is that most of 2022’s trending colors work really well with gray. Simply incorporate touches of any of these beautiful new colors and your home will look up to date—without your needing to do a complete overhaul. Check out a few of our favorites below and to see more colors trending this year: Read the Full Article Here

Sherwin-Williams’ Aleutian

Glidden's Guacamole

Valspar's Gilded Linen

Valspar's Subtle Peach

Tips For Making Small Rooms Feel More Spacious

Sat, 22 Jan 2022 23:05:58 GMT

If you have a small room in your home, your challenge is to maximize your space to make it work for you. However, with a little ingenuity, you can rearrange a small room to make it feel much more spacious. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Scale Down Furniture.

As much as you might be tempted to get a large sectional to feel cozy, big-scale furniture takes up way too much space. That's why you should scale down your furniture to smaller pieces that provide both room to move around and negative spaces to make the area look larger.

Use Pieces with Legs.

One trick to add visual space is to use furniture such as chairs and love seats with legs. Instead of large blocky pieces that sit directly on the floor, using furniture with legs makes the space look larger without drawing attention downward.

Add a Mirror.

Instead of picking out art for your small space, consider decorating with a mirror. Mirrors reflect the opposite side of the room, making the area appear larger. You can choose something simple without a frame or a more decorative piece to augment your design style.

Remove Rugs or Drapes.

Rugs or drapes aren't a necessary component of every room, especially small rooms. Removing rugs will visually expand the space and leaving drapes off windows will avoid framing the small room.

Use Bright Colors.

Some say that staying neutral is essential, but you might want to add a pop of color for small spaces for visual interest. The only rule you need to follow here is to avoid dark, dramatic colors and lean toward bright shades. Keep your neutral tones white.

Make Room for Foot Traffic.

Finally, be sure to arrange your furniture to provide ample room for foot traffic. You want to pare down the number of pieces you have in the space to ensure that it's comfortable for sitting and navigating.

Are you ready to downsize into a smaller space? Contact us to learn more today.

Happening Around Town

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 00:00:40 GMT

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Can you believe its already 2022?! The holidays are over, and the rain seems to have taken a leave of absence—for the moment. Chances are that you’re stir crazy from being stuck inside. The great news is that the Greater Sacramento Area has tons of amazing and diverse activities for everyone in the family.

If you’re a parent, you know how crazy kids get when they’re cooped up. Sure, you can take them to the park, but there are lots of other fun and inexpensive activities to entertain and even educate those kiddos. A great place for little ones is the Folsom Zoo and Train Ride . Kids can visit the zoo, pop over to the train ride, and wrap up the day playing in at Folsom City Lion’s Park , all without leaving the property.

If the rain starts up again, heading indoors for the Baby Shark Live! 2022 Splash Tour in Sacramento could be just the ticket. And older kids will have a ball (pun intended) at TopGolf or Strikes Unlimited in Rocklin.

For adults, there are concerts, wine tasting, sporting events, and so much more. Don’t forget, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner.

If you’re not the traditional type, you might consider taking your sweetheart somewhere unique like the Valentine’s Day Flamenco Dinner Show in Sacramento or the Laughs & Crafts Standup comedy show at Out of Bounds Brewery in Folsom.

Everyone has a different idea of what’s fun, so it’s nice to have lots of options. Check out these local sites where you’re sure to find fantastic activities for every member of your family.

FOLSOM

Free & Cheap Things To Do In Folsom

Events for Kids & Families Around Folsom & El Dorado Hills

EL DORADO HILLS

Things To Do In El Dorado Hills

GREATER SACRAMENTO AREA

Things To Do In Sacramento

Wineries & Wine Tasting Around the Sacramento Region

ROSEVILLE, ROCKLIN, LINCOLN

Free & Cheap Things To Do In Roseville