Category: The Caton Team

5 Mistakes People Make When Buying Home Goods Online

5 Mistakes People Make When Buying Home Goods Online

By ALLISON MCCARTHY |

The internet makes shopping for everything in life so easy. And while there are no major surprises when purchasing toilet paper or cleaning supplies, buying furniture and home decor online can prove a bit tricky. Is that sofa more of a cream, taupe or oatmeal? Will those barstools really fit under the counter? So we asked Michele Hofherr, co-founder of the online-only home goods consignment shop Previously Owned by a Gay Man, to weigh in with her tips about what not to do. Here’s what she has to say.

MAKING ASSUMPTIONS ABOUT SIZE AND SCALE

It is virtually impossible to look at a chair online and know if it will fit with a table or desk in your home. That’s why a measuring tape is essential. Look carefully at the dimensions listed online and then physically measure them out at home to make sure the piece is the right size for your space before clicking purchase. And if you are buying a chair to fit with a desk, don’t forget to check the arm measurements to make sure they’ll fit under the desk comfortably.

FORGETTING TO CHECK ON QUALITY

That distressed leather loveseat you’ve got your eyes on may look like the perfect piece for your home, but just because it looks good online doesn’t mean it will necessarily live up to expectations in person. As the saying goes, “If it looks too good to be true, it probably is.” Do your due diligence: Research the manufacturer (the company one keeps can be very revealing) and look for material content. Make sure the item that looks like wood is indeed made from real wood, or that a rug that appears to be wool isn’t actually made from man-made fibers.

IGNORING SHIPPING AND RETURN POLICIES

It’s easy to get caught up in the price of shipping and forget to ask or look into how an item will be shipped. This is especially important with large, heavy or awkwardly shaped items. Ask how long shipping will take (if not explained on the site), and, for large items, if white-glove delivery is available. When dealing with an individual seller, it might also be wise to ask who is liable should any damage occur in transit.

MISJUDGE COLOR ACCURACY IN ONLINE IMAGES

This is a tricky one. Colors can appear very different online because of lighting, camera flash or photo editing. If possible, request a color swatch that you can hold up in your own space, or look for additional shots of the item elsewhere online.

FAIL TO FIND OUT WHETHER ANY ASSEMBLY IS REQUIRED

Very often, a piece of furniture may look like it would come in one piece, but when you read the fine print, you see two sometimes-scary words: assembly required. Rather than leave it up to surprise, try calling and talking to a customer service representative who can provide specific details about what work you’ll need to do on your end. Pro tip: Consider buying previously owned or vintage pieces because you’ll rarely need to assemble a thing.

I read this article at: https://www.purewow.com/home/online-furniture-shopping-mistakes?utm_medium=email&utm_source=sf&utm_campaign=24424&utm_content=Home_and_Garden_editorial

Remember to follow our Blog for the local real estate beat, a pulse on the San Francisco Peninsula at: https://therealestatebeat.wordpress.com

Got Questions? – The Caton Team is here to help.  

Email Sabrina & Susan at:  Info@TheCatonTeam.com

Call us at: 650-568-5522  Office: 650-365-9200

Want Real Estate Info on the Go?  Download our FREE Real Estate App:  http://thecatonteam.com/mobileapp

HomeSnap: http://www.homesnap.com/Sabrina-Caton

Visit our Website at:   http://thecatonteam.com/

Visit our INSTAGRAM page:  http://instagram.com/thecatonteam

PINTREST: https://www.pinterest.com/thecatonteam/

Visit us on FACEBOOK:   http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sabrina-Susan-The-Caton-Team-Realtors/294970377834

YELP us at: http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-caton-team-realtors-sabrina-caton-and-susan-caton-redwood-city

Or YELP me:  http://www.yelp.com/user_details_thanx?userid=gpbsls-_RLpPiE9bv3Zygw

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheCatonTeam

Connect with us professionally at LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinawendtcaton

https://www.linkedin.com/in/susancatonrealtor

Please enjoy my personal journey through homeownership at:

http://ajourneythroughhomeownership.wordpress.com

Thanks for reading – Sabrina

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina – A Family of Realtors

Effective. Efficient. Responsive.  What Can The Caton Team Do For You?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

Sabrina BRE# 01413526 / Susan BRE #01238225 / Team BRE# 70000218/ Office BRE #01499008

A Walk Among the Ruins

A Walk Among the Ruins

It’s always fun to explore new areas with clients.  Today we ventured off into the Santa Cruz mountains to see a piece of land.  Let me just say – as a married woman – this must be what it is like to online date.  The photo and the description did not match in person.  :/

We were so excited as we turned onto the road, meandered through the canopy of trees where shadow and light danced and.  As we fast approached the address, the creek came into view, then the for sale sign at the end of the road.  I grabbed my backpack and camera, tightened up the shoes – I was ready to survey the land.  Then we realized we were looking at it.  The useable lot was no bigger than a family room.  Most of thee land was up hill – to say the least.  It wasn’t what we expected.  We found what once was the foundation of a home long before.  Now complete ruins.  Made me feel a bit like Indiana Jones – standing there – looking at what just 30 years can do to a piece of land and wonder – what the heck was that?

So – this isn’t the piece of land we’re looking for – but it did make for a fun adventure.  It’s the best part of the journey – exploring new areas with trusted clients.  As Susan and I always say – have pen will travel – it’s a Reatlor Life – someone has got to do it.

Check out my photos from today’s adventure on my Instagram account at https://www.instagram.com/thecatonteam/ or Facebook page – https://www.facebook.com/TheCatonTeam/

I wrote this…

Remember to follow our Blog for the local real estate beat, a pulse on the San Francisco Peninsula at: https://therealestatebeat.wordpress.com

Got Questions? – The Caton Team is here to help.  

Email Sabrina & Susan at:  Info@TheCatonTeam.com

Call us at: 650-568-5522  Office: 650-365-9200

Want Real Estate Info on the Go?  Download our FREE Real Estate App:  http://thecatonteam.com/mobileapp

HomeSnap: http://www.homesnap.com/Sabrina-Caton

Visit our Website at:   http://thecatonteam.com/

Visit our INSTAGRAM page:  http://instagram.com/thecatonteam

PINTREST: https://www.pinterest.com/thecatonteam/

Visit us on FACEBOOK:   http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sabrina-Susan-The-Caton-Team-Realtors/294970377834

YELP us at: http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-caton-team-realtors-sabrina-caton-and-susan-caton-redwood-city

Or YELP me:  http://www.yelp.com/user_details_thanx?userid=gpbsls-_RLpPiE9bv3Zygw

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheCatonTeam

Connect with us professionally at LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinawendtcaton

https://www.linkedin.com/in/susancatonrealtor

Please enjoy my personal journey through homeownership at:

http://ajourneythroughhomeownership.wordpress.com

Thanks for reading – Sabrina

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina – A Family of Realtors

Effective. Efficient. Responsive.  What Can The Caton Team Do For You?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

Sabrina BRE# 01413526 / Susan BRE #01238225 / Team BRE# 70000218/ Office BRE #01499008

Thank you Nielsen Automotive!!!

I just need to take a moment and thank Nielsen Automotive on 888 El Camino in San Carlos for their awesome help.  Now and every other time I’ve rolled into full service with a nail in my tire.  These guys have been helping me with tires, smog checks, gasoline, and oil since I was a teenager in a junky car.  In the middle of looking at homes that tire light came on.  I had a late appointment and didn’t want to get us stranded – so I rolled into full service and they took care of me and my tire quickly.  It was fast, affordable and with a smile.  So thank you for taking great care of me!

You can find my yelp review here:

http://www.yelp.com/biz/nielsen-automotive-san-carlos?hrid=R29CEBqUwGKtAzOcONOplg

Here is their Yelp Page – with 5 stars of course!

https://www.yelp.com/biz/nielsen-automotive-san-carlos?hrid=R29CEBqUwGKtAzOcONOplg

Remember to follow our Blog for the local real estate beat, a pulse on the San Francisco Peninsula at: https://therealestatebeat.wordpress.com

Got Questions? – The Caton Team is here to help.  

Email Sabrina & Susan at:  Info@TheCatonTeam.com

Call us at: 650-568-5522  Office: 650-365-9200

Want Real Estate Info on the Go?  Download our FREE Real Estate App:  http://thecatonteam.com/mobileapp

HomeSnap: http://www.homesnap.com/Sabrina-Caton

Visit our Website at:   http://thecatonteam.com/

Visit our INSTAGRAM page:  http://instagram.com/thecatonteam

PINTREST: https://www.pinterest.com/thecatonteam/

Visit us on FACEBOOK:   http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sabrina-Susan-The-Caton-Team-Realtors/294970377834

YELP us at: http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-caton-team-realtors-sabrina-caton-and-susan-caton-redwood-city

Or YELP me:  http://www.yelp.com/user_details_thanx?userid=gpbsls-_RLpPiE9bv3Zygw

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheCatonTeam

Connect with us professionally at LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinawendtcaton

https://www.linkedin.com/in/susancatonrealtor

Please enjoy my personal journey through homeownership at:

http://ajourneythroughhomeownership.wordpress.com

Thanks for reading – Sabrina

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina – A Family of Realtors

Effective. Efficient. Responsive.  What Can The Caton Team Do For You?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

Sabrina BRE# 01413526 / Susan BRE #01238225 / Team BRE# 70000218/ Office BRE #01499008

Where to Donate Your Professional Clothes!

Where to Donate Your Professional Clothes!

Just recently I came to the sad realization that me feet, had in fact, grown.  A whole size.  Add to that a horrible bike accident and recovery – let’s just say comfort is now the number one factor when buying new, larger shoes.

Standing to my knees in shoeboxes of high heels one size too small I didn’t know the best place to donate them so I reached out to my Facebook friends.  Thank you Karen for the Urban League.  Currently located in Sacramento – here is their website:  http://nul.iamempowered.com

Thank you fellow NDB tiger, Aaron for Dress for Success, https://www.dressforsuccess.org, and Wardrobe http://wardrobe.org.

Dress for Success is having an event this Month –  Tuesday, July 25th from 1-4pm at 500 Sutter Street, Suite #218 in San Francisco.  Details can be found here: https://sanfrancisco.dressforsuccess.org/get-involved/donate/  They have a few dates in August too!

I found this article by Closet Factory about donating clothes and have shared it below.  It always feels good to help those in need.  Susan and I have cleared out our closets and are excited to donate our clothes to women in need.  We know – nothing makes you feel better than a pair of great looking and feeling shoes.

Pay it forward,

Sabrina & Susan

The Caton Team – A Family of Realtors

Declutter Your Closet: The Best Charities for Donated Clothing

When you declutter your closet, which should be at the top of your list of things to do when considering buying a custom closet, it can be hard to decide what to do with the items you’re parting with. Donating it to charity is the logical response, however, many Americans have thought twice about donating their used clothing after hearing news reports state that a large portion of their donations are shipped to third world countries and sold for a profit. Naturally, people are torn between wanting to help the less fortunate and knowing big business is profiting from their donations.

However, donating your decluttered closet items to charity is still a good idea. It certainly is a better alternative to throwing your once precious possessions in the trash. The trick is to choose a charity that directly distributes your clothing to people in need or if you donate to an organization that sells clothing, make sure that a large percentage of their profits goes directly to charity. Below is a list of organizations that donate clothing directly to people in need. If these charities don’t have a chapter located near you, don’t give up. Chances are, you have a local organization that is doing similar work, so all you need is a little research to make sure your donations go to a good home.

Dress for Success: With national affiliates all over the U.S., this is the perfect place to take all your work clothes and shoes that you no longer wear. Their philosophy is to promote self-confidence and economic independence for disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, mentor support and career development training. The organization distributes your donations to disadvantaged women who need business outfits for job interviews.

Career Gear: This charity does for men what Dress for Success does for women. They provide professional clothing, mentoring and life-skills to help low income men get the clothing and toiletries they need for job interviews. There are several locations on the East Coast and in various parts of the Southern U.S.

Cinderella Project: Here’s where you can take all those old bridesmaid dresses you’ll never wear again. This New York state based organization takes donated formal dresses and gives them to teenage girls who can’t afford to buy a prom dress. There are similar sister projects like this such as The Princess Project in California. Check your local community listings to see if you have a local organization that does the same thing.

Big Brother Big Sister Foundation: This foundation accepts any type of clothing in good condition and all donations go to the foundation’s resale stores. 100% of the proceeds benefit the charity which pairs adult mentors with at-risk kids. You can even schedule a pickup online and they will come get your donation.

Vietnam Veterans of America:
This national non-profit provides support and services for all military veterans returning home after serving and aid for homeless and disabled vets. They accept all types of clothing, shoes and accessories in good condition for children and adults.  Then they sell the donated items in their resale shops with the proceeds going directly to the VVA. They will also come and pick up your donation, which you can schedule online.

As you can see, there are many places to find good homes for the clothing you no longer have a use for. Decluttering your wardrobe closet not only helps you feel good but it can also help others feel better about their lives. Go to our Closet Factory blog for more tips on how to live a life free of clutter.

This was a fun blog – thank you for your help friends – let’s pay it forward.  -Sabrina

I read this article at: https://www.closetfactory.com/blog/declutter-your-closet-the-best-charities-for-donated-clothing/

Remember to follow our Blog for the local real estate beat, a pulse on the San Francisco Peninsula at: https://therealestatebeat.wordpress.com

Got Questions? – The Caton Team is here to help.  

Email Sabrina & Susan at:  Info@TheCatonTeam.com

Call us at: 650-568-5522  Office: 650-365-9200

Want Real Estate Info on the Go?  Download our FREE Real Estate App:  http://thecatonteam.com/mobileapp

HomeSnap: http://www.homesnap.com/Sabrina-Caton

Visit our Website at:   http://thecatonteam.com/

Visit our INSTAGRAM page:  http://instagram.com/thecatonteam

PINTREST: https://www.pinterest.com/thecatonteam/

Visit us on FACEBOOK:   http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sabrina-Susan-The-Caton-Team-Realtors/294970377834

YELP us at: http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-caton-team-realtors-sabrina-caton-and-susan-caton-redwood-city

Or YELP me:  http://www.yelp.com/user_details_thanx?userid=gpbsls-_RLpPiE9bv3Zygw

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheCatonTeam

Connect with us professionally at LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinawendtcaton

https://www.linkedin.com/in/susancatonrealtor

Please enjoy my personal journey through homeownership at:

http://ajourneythroughhomeownership.wordpress.com

Thanks for reading – Sabrina

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina – A Family of Realtors

Effective. Efficient. Responsive.  What Can The Caton Team Do For You?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

Sabrina BRE# 01413526 / Susan BRE #01238225 / Team BRE# 70000218/ Office BRE #01499008

San Mateo County Farmers Markets, Events & Things to Do!

San Mateo County Farmers Markets, Events & Things to Do!

FARMERS MARKETS

Belmont
Year-round: Sun 10:00am-2:00pm
El Camino Real and O’Neill Ave

Brisbane
Year-round: Thur 2:30-6:30pm
11 Old County Road

Daly City
Year-round: Thur & Sat 9:00am-1:00pm
Serramonte Shopping Center 

Foster City
Year-Round: Sat. 9:00am-1:00pm
Sun. 2:30pm-6:30pm
791 Beach Park Blvd. 

Menlo Park
Year-round: Sun. 9:00am-1:00pm
1050 Chestnut St. 

Millbrae
Year-round: Sat. 8:00am-1:00pm
200 Broadway, Millbrae

Redwood City
Multiple Venues and Times – see link

San Mateo
Year-round: Sat. 9:00am-1:00pm
College of San Mateo

San Carlos
Year-round: Sun. 10:00am-2:00pm
700 Block Laurel Street

Events

Community Day in the Park
June 4, 2017
12:00pm-5:00pm
San Bruno City Park

Summer Foodfest
June 24, 2017
12:00pm
Facebook Headquarters

Biggest Little Airshow
June 3, 2017
10:00am
Hiller Aviation Museum
San Carlos

cityFEST
June 2-4, 2017
5:00pm
Leo Ryan Park
Foster City

Summer Concert Series – Beatles Tribute
June 14, 2017
6:30pm-8:00pm
Fremont Park
Menlo Park

Free First Fridays
June 2, 2017
10:00am-4:00pm
San Mateo County History Museum
Redwood City

Movies on the Square – Hidden Figures
June 1, 2017
8:45pm-11:00pm
Courthouse Square
Redwood City

St. Pius Festival
June 3-4, 2017
1:00pm-10:00pm
St. Pius Church
Redwood City

First Fridays
June 2, 2017
10:16am
Barracuda Japanese Restaurant
Burlingame

San Mateo County Fair
June 10-18, 2017
10:00am
San Mateo County Event Center

 

THINGS TO DO

Planet Granite Belmont
Crystal Springs Regional Trail 
San Bruno Mountain State Park
Half Moon Bay Brewing Company
Peninsula Museum of Art 
Hiller Aviation Museum 
San Mateo County History Museum
Filoli
Bay Area Ski Bus
Devil’s Canyon Brewing Company
Bel Mateo Bowl 
Half Moon Bay State Beach 
Poplar Creek Golf Course
Half Moon Bay Golf Links
CuriOdyssey
Sanchez Adobe
Memorial Park  
Club Fox
Unleashed Art Gallery 
Museum of PEZ Memorabilia
GoKart Racer

 

MOVIES COMING SOON

Friday, June 2, 2017
Wonder Woman
Captain Underpants
Churchill

Friday, June 9, 2017
The Mummy
The Hero

Friday, June 16, 2017
Cars 3
Rough Night
Resident Evil: Vendetta

Friday, June 23, 2017
Transformers: The Last Knight
The Beguiled

Friday, June 30, 2017
Despicable Me 3
The House

 

Courtesy of Chicago Title Company
17 Father’s Day Activities: Source.

Remember to follow our Blog for the local real estate beat, a pulse on the San Francisco Peninsula at: https://therealestatebeat.wordpress.com

Got Questions? – The Caton Team is here to help.  

Email Sabrina & Susan at:  Info@TheCatonTeam.com

Call us at: 650-568-5522  Office: 650-365-9200

Want Real Estate Info on the Go?  Download our FREE Real Estate App:  http://thecatonteam.com/mobileapp

HomeSnap: http://www.homesnap.com/Sabrina-Caton

Visit our Website at:   http://thecatonteam.com/

Visit our INSTAGRAM page:  http://instagram.com/thecatonteam

PINTREST: https://www.pinterest.com/thecatonteam/

Visit us on FACEBOOK:   http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sabrina-Susan-The-Caton-Team-Realtors/294970377834

YELP us at: http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-caton-team-realtors-sabrina-caton-and-susan-caton-redwood-city

Or YELP me:  http://www.yelp.com/user_details_thanx?userid=gpbsls-_RLpPiE9bv3Zygw

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheCatonTeam

Connect with us professionally at LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinawendtcaton

https://www.linkedin.com/in/susancatonrealtor

Please enjoy my personal journey through homeownership at:

http://ajourneythroughhomeownership.wordpress.com

Thanks for reading – Sabrina

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina – A Family of Realtors

Effective. Efficient. Responsive.  What Can The Caton Team Do For You?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

Sabrina BRE# 01413526 / Susan BRE #01238225 / Team BRE# 70000218/ Office BRE #01499008

Night in Holiday Lights –San Carlos – TOMORROW Dec 2nd

Night in Holiday Lights

The most wonderful time of year starts now! Come to our lovely town of San Carlos for our Holiday festival and tree lighting. Laurel Street will be closed between Olive and San Carlos Ave.

WHEN: Friday Dec 2 – 5:30-9:00pm – 6:30 Lighting Festivities

WHERE: Corner of Laurel Street and Cherry Street in Downtown San Carlos

WHY: Kids Carnival Rides / Lights & Snow / Carolers / Arts & Crafts / Holiday Show with the Grinch & Santa / Performance by Dutch Uncle

Have a magical Holiday Season – with love from The Caton Team

*—–*—–*—–*—–*—–*—–*—–*—–*—–*—–*—–*—–*—–*—–*—–*

Remember to follow our Blog for the local real estate beat, a pulse on the San Francisco Peninsula at: https://therealestatebeat.wordpress.com

Got Questions? – The Caton Team is here to help.  

Email Sabrina & Susan at: Info@TheCatonTeam.com

Call us at: 650-568-5522

Want Real Estate Info on the Go? Download our FREE Real Estate App:  http://thecatonteam.com/mobileapp

Visit our Website at:   http://thecatonteam.com/

VISIT OUR INSTAGRAM PAGE: http://instagram.com/thecatonteam

Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/thecatonteam/

Visit us on Facebook:   http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sabrina-Susan-The-Caton-Team-Realtors/294970377834

Yelp us at: http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-caton-team-realtors-sabrina-caton-and-susan-caton-redwood-city

Or Yelp me: http://www.yelp.com/user_details_thanx?userid=gpbsls-_RLpPiE9bv3Zygw

Connect with us professionally at LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinawendtcaton

https://www.linkedin.com/in/susancatonrealtor

Please enjoy my personal journey through homeownership at:

http://ajourneythroughhomeownership.wordpress.com

Thanks for reading – Sabrina

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina – A Family of Realtors

Effective. Efficient. Responsive.  What Can The Caton Team Do For You?

 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

Sabrina BRE# 01413526 / Susan BRE #01238225 / Team BRE# 70000218/ Office BRE #01499008

 

Top Reasons People Want to Move

Top Reasons People Want to Move

DAILY REAL ESTATE NEWS |

One in three U.S. households say they plan to move in the next five years, according to a survey conducted by the Demand Institute of 10,000 households’ current living situations. And it’s the location of the home that will be driving most of those moving decisions — more so than the physical home itself.

Seventy-five percent of the households surveyed cited one or more location-related reasons for why they were moving. The top reasons were the desire for a safer neighborhood (30%); being closer to family (27%); a change of climate (26%); being closer to work (25%), and moving for a new job (23%).

More than half — 59 percent — of households say they don’t plan to go too far, with most indicating a move within 30 miles of their current home.

For those seeking a location for climate reasons, the Western and Southern U.S. continue to be the top destinations.

The following were the top location characteristics identified as “very important” by those surveyed:

  • Amenities/services in walking distance (39%)
  • Good school district (34%)
  • Close to work (32%)
  • Diverse neighborhood (26%)
  • Near public transit (25%)

Many movers say they’re eyeing more walkable communities. Indeed, walkable communities have been reporting stronger home-price growth compared to less walkable communities, according to the Demand Institute’s report. Those who reside in walkable communities also are more likely to report that their quality of life has improved in the past few years due to their change in residence.

As such, Americans are desiring more amenities near them. Of those surveyed, the following places were identified as what home buyers would most like to have near their future home:

  • Grocery stores (63% say short drive OK; 22% want it within walking distance)
  • Restaurants and cafes (56% short drive; 20% walking distance)
  • Parks and green space (40% short drive; 35% walking distance)
  • Healthcare services (62% short drive; 10% walking distance)

Retail (57% short drive; 12% walking distance)

 

I read this article at: http://realtormag.realtor.org/daily-news/2015/02/25/top-reasons-people-want-move?om_rid=AACmlZ&om_mid=_BU7kXlB8-nKOr6&om_ntype=RMODaily

Remember to follow our Blog at: https://therealestatebeat.wordpress.com/

Got Questions? – The Caton Team is here to help.  

Email Sabrina & Susan at: Info@TheCatonTeam.com

Call us at: 650-568-5522

Want Real Estate Info on the Go? Download our FREE Real Estate App:  http://thecatonteam.com/mobileapp

Visit our Website at:   http://thecatonteam.com/

VISIT OUR NEW INSTAGRAM PAGE: http://instagram.com/thecatonteam

Visit us on Facebook:   http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sabrina-Susan-The-Caton-Team-Realtors/294970377834

Yelp us at: http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-caton-team-realtors-sabrina-caton-and-susan-caton-redwood-city

Or Yelp me: http://www.yelp.com/user_details_thanx?userid=gpbsls-_RLpPiE9bv3Zygw

Connect with us professionally at LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=6588013&trk=tab_pro

Please enjoy my personal journey through homeownership at:

http://ajourneythroughhomeownership.wordpress.com

Thanks for reading – Sabrina

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina – A Family of Realtors

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

Sabrina BRE# 01413526 / Susan BRE #01238225 / Team BRE# 70000218/ Office BRE #01499008

 

Designer Living At Its Best!

For Sale – Stunning Atrium Style Condo in San Mateo

OPEN HOUSE – Saturday 6/20 from 1:30-4:00pm

Are you looking for a place to call home? Come visit The Caton Teams newest listing at 1919 Alameda de las Pulgas, Unit 144 in San Mateo. This stunning home is move-in ready. Featuring 2 bedrooms and 1 bath on a ground floor, atrium style condo. The kitchen as been beautifully updated with granite countertops, quartz tile backsplash and stainless steel appliances that overlooks the atrium courtyard. This unit also has inside laundry with the washer and dryer in the kitchen. The bath has updated with designer touches, glass tile backsplash, newer fixtures, mirrors and medicine cabinet. The master bedroom (currently used as the office) has a private entrance to the bath, while the second bedroom has glass sliding doors to the atrium. The atrium has a lovely tree planted at the heart of the space, a small water fountain and tiled flooring with drain. The afternoon light is divine, trickling through the tree. The atrium courtyard is private, with access from only the bedroom and living room and is a private space. This condo has dual paned windows, sliding doors, crown molding, laminate flooring in the living and dining room, tile in the kitchen, vinyl flooring in the bath, wall to wall carpeting in both bedrooms and designer lighting fixtures throughout. The Gardens condo complex has easy access to Highways 92/101/280, Silicon Valley and SFO. The Gardens is a gated community and its amenities include, lush landscaped common areas, 2 swimming pools (one indoor and one outdoor), exercise & community rooms. This unit is divine and a must see. If you cannot make our open house this weekend, we will also be open on Sunday 6/28 from 1:30-4:00 unless we get a spectacular offer. For a private showing, more information or questions please call Susan Caton at 650.568.5539 or email us at Info@TheCatonTeam.com

See more at: http://thecatonteam.com/IDX/1919-Alameda-De-Las-Pulgas-144-SAN-MATEO-CA-94403/81470710_REIL/0004010#sthash.Uuv2242w.dpuf

 

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Got Questions? – The Caton Team is here to help.  

Email Sabrina & Susan at: Info@TheCatonTeam.com

Call us at: 650-568-5522

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Connect with us professionally at LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=6588013&trk=tab_pro

Please enjoy my personal journey through homeownership at:

http://ajourneythroughhomeownership.wordpress.com

Thanks for reading – Sabrina

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina – A Family of Realtors

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

Sabrina BRE# 01413526 / Susan BRE #01238225 / Team BRE# 70000218/ Office BRE #01499008

Do Your Part To Conserve Water – Lawn Rebate Programs

Do Your Part….

As I drive around looking at all the beautiful listings coming on the market – I can’t help to notice who is and who is not doing their part for the drought.

I know a green lawn is a beautiful thing. But not during the drought. Check out Bay Area Water Supply & Conservation Agency for their “Lawn Be Gone” rebate program. They are offering rebates from $1.00 – $4.00 a SqFt to remove your lawn! Check out the details, rules and restrictions below.

http://bawsca.org/conservation/lawn-be-gone/

And if you’re thinking of selling your home this season, look into drought tolerant plants – now that’s a beautiful thing! Green homes and thoughtful landscaping is always a plus!

Even if you are not a homeowner, we can all do our part. Shorter showers, using gray water to water our plants, collecting rain water (when and if it rains again) and taking the time to turn off the faucet when washing dishes or brushing our teeth helps. Each drop counts. So please – do you part.

(PS . Check online for other county and city rebate programs going on now!)

Remember to follow our Blog at: https://therealestatebeat.wordpress.com/

Got Questions? – The Caton Team is here to help.  

Email Sabrina & Susan at: Info@TheCatonTeam.com

Call us at: 650-568-5522

Want Real Estate Info on the Go? Download our FREE Real Estate App:  http://thecatonteam.com/mobileapp

Visit our Website at:   http://thecatonteam.com/

VISIT OUR INSTAGRAM PAGE: http://instagram.com/thecatonteam

Visit us on Facebook:   http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sabrina-Susan-The-Caton-Team-Realtors/294970377834

Yelp us at: http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-caton-team-realtors-sabrina-caton-and-susan-caton-redwood-city

Or Yelp me: http://www.yelp.com/user_details_thanx?userid=gpbsls-_RLpPiE9bv3Zygw

Connect with us professionally at LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=6588013&trk=tab_pro

Please enjoy my personal journey through homeownership at:

http://ajourneythroughhomeownership.wordpress.com

Thanks for reading – Sabrina

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina – A Family of Realtors

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

Sabrina BRE# 01413526 / Susan BRE #01238225 / Team BRE# 70000218/ Office BRE #01499008

Home Sales Off to a Bumpy Start in 2015

Home Sales Off to a Bumpy Start in 2015

DAILY REAL ESTATE NEWS |

Existing-home sales dropped in January to the lowest rate in nine months, according to the National Association of REALTORS®’ latest housing report. All regions across the country saw declines in sales in January, with the Northeast and West posting the largest losses.

Still, the pace of sales was higher than a year ago – at a 4.82 million seasonally adjusted annual rate remains up 3.2 percent compared to a year ago.

“January housing data can be volatile because of seasonal influences, but low housing supply and the ongoing rise in home prices above the pace of inflation appeared to slow sales, despite interest rates remaining near historic lows,” says Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist. “REALTORS® are reporting that low rates are attracting potential buyers, but the lack of new and affordable listings is leading some to delay decisions.”

5 Stats to Gauge the Market

Here’s a closer look at where the housing market stands, based on NAR’s existing-home sales report for January.

  1. Inventory: Total housing inventory at the end of January rose 0.5 percent to 1.87 million existing homes available but sale. Unsold inventory is at a 4.7-month supply at the current sales pace.
  2. Home prices: The median existing-home price for all housing types was $199,600 – 6.2 percent above year ago levels. “Although sales cooled in January, home prices continued solid year-over-year growth,” Yun notes. “The labor market and economy are markedly improved compared to a year ago, which supports stronger buyer demand. The big test for housing will be the impact on affordability once rates rise.”
  3. Distressed sales: Foreclosures and short sales comprised 11 percent of sales in January, down 15 percent from a year ago. Broken out, 8 percent of sales in January were from foreclosures and 3 percent were short sales. The average discount that a foreclosure sold at was 15 percent below market value, while short sales were discounted, on average, 12 percent.
  4. Days on the market: Properties tended to stay on the market slightly longer in January – 69 days compared to 66 days in December. Short sales remained on the market the longest at a median of 128 days, while foreclosures tended to sell in 63 days. Overall, 30 percent of homes sold in January were on the market for less than a month.
  5. Cash sales: All-cash sales made up 27 percent of transactions in January, down from 33 percent a year ago. Individual investors, who account for the bulk of cash sales, purchased 17 percent of homes in January, below the 20 percent in January 2014.

Regional Breakdown

Here’s a closer look at existing-home sales in January across the country:

  • Northeast: existing-home sales dropped 6 percent to an annual rate of 630,000. Sales are 3.3 percent above a year ago. Median price: $247,800, up 2.7 percent from a year ago
  • Midwest: existing-home sales fell 2.7 percent to an annual level of 1.08 million in January. Sales are still 0.9 percent above January 2014 levels. Median price: $151,300, up 8.2 percent from a year ago
  • South: existing-home sales dropped 4.6 percent to an annual rate of 2.07 million in January, but are still 5.6 percent above year ago levels. Median price: $171,900, up 7.4 percent from a year ago
  • West: existing-home sales fell 7.1 percent to an annual rate of 1.04 million in January, but are still 1 percent above a year ago. Median price: $291,800, up 7.2 percent from a year ago.

 

Allow me to add my 2 cents.  On the San Francisco Peninsula – we are experience a HUGE demand for housing.  We actually are having a housing shortage with the volume of people who work on the peninsula and expect to live on the peninsula.  As a result we have seen rental prices soar through the roof!  I can’t even believe I used to rent a two bedroom apartment in 1996 for under $1000 in SAN CARLOS!  Now – a 2 bedroom apartment is going for close to $2500-$3500 A MONTH!  And the East Bay is rapidly capturing our displaced employees – have you seen the bridges these days during commute hours?  Redwood City is one of the few communities that has actually built housing and they are going for a premium.  So if you want to call San Mateo or Santa Clara County home – it’s best you start saving your money and get into the market sooner than later.  The Caton Team is here to help you every step of the way.  Call or email me anytime.

Sabrina

650.568.5522 or sabrina_caton@yahoo.com

I read this article at: http://realtormag.realtor.org/daily-news/2015/02/24/home-sales-bumpy-start-in-2015?om_rid=AACmlZ&om_mid=_BU7P7wB8-lmizw&om_ntype=RMODaily

Remember to follow our Blog at: https://therealestatebeat.wordpress.com/

Got Questions? – The Caton Team is here to help.  

Email Sabrina & Susan at: Info@TheCatonTeam.com

Call us at: 650-568-5522

Want Real Estate Info on the Go? Download our FREE Real Estate App:  http://thecatonteam.com/mobileapp

Visit our Website at:   http://thecatonteam.com/

VISIT OUR NEW INSTAGRAM PAGE: http://instagram.com/thecatonteam

Visit us on Facebook:   http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sabrina-Susan-The-Caton-Team-Realtors/294970377834

Yelp us at: http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-caton-team-realtors-sabrina-caton-and-susan-caton-redwood-city

Or Yelp me: http://www.yelp.com/user_details_thanx?userid=gpbsls-_RLpPiE9bv3Zygw

Connect with us professionally at LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=6588013&trk=tab_pro

Please enjoy my personal journey through homeownership at:

http://ajourneythroughhomeownership.wordpress.com

Thanks for reading – Sabrina

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina – A Family of Realtors

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

Sabrina BRE# 01413526 / Susan BRE #01238225 / Team BRE# 70000218/ Office BRE #01499008