testimonial – The Real Estate Beat

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We’re so grateful when our clients share their kind words with us. We love what we do and we love taking great care of our clients.

“Sabrina and Susan were an incredible help in selling our house. They moved at the pace we needed and answered every question we had. They adapted to the difficulties of selling in 2020 with ease. FANTASTIC! Thank you so much for all your did helping us. I appreciate how patient you were throughout and how helpful you were to me personally.”

– Ben

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We strive to be more than just Realtors – we are also your home resource. If you have any real estate questions, concerns, need a referral, or some guidance – we are here for you. Contact us at your convenience – we are but a call, text or click away!

The Caton Team believes, in order to be successful in the San Fransisco | Peninsula | Bay Area | Silicon Valley Real Estate Market we have to think and act differently. We do this by positioning our clients in the strongest light, representing them with the utmost integrity, while strategically maneuvering through negotiations and contracts. Together we make dreams come true.

A mother and daughter-in-law team with over 35 years of combined, local Real Estate experience and knowledge – wouldn’t you like The Caton Team to represent you? Let us know how we can be of service. Contact us any time.

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

Thank you for the Testimonial!

We’re so grateful when our clients share their kind words with us. We love what we do and we love taking great care of our clients.

We recently had the pleasure of working with Sabrina from Caton Real Estate to sell our family home, and we cannot recommend her highly enough. From our first meeting, Sabrina demonstrated exceptional professionalism, knowledge, and a genuine commitment to helping us through the entire process.

She took the time to understand our needs and expectations, providing valuable insights into the market that helped us position our home competitively. Her marketing strategies were impressive, showcasing our home beautifully and attracting a lot of interest.

Sabrina was always available to answer questions and provided regular updates, making us feel supported every step of the way. Additionally, Susan from the same team offered her assistance when needed, ensuring a seamless experience.

Thanks to their hard work and dedication, we sold our home quickly and for a great price. If you’re looking for a trustworthy and effective real estate agent, look no further than Sabrina at Caton Real Estate. We couldn’t be happier with the experience!”

Sincerely – L.A & S.V

We are so blessed to help our clients through all their Real Estate needs.

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The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

Thank you for the Testimonial!

We’re so grateful when our clients share their kind words with us. We love what we do and we love taking great care of our clients.

Highly recommended to anyone looking for a trustworthy and top-notch service provider! I couldn’t be happier with my decision to work with Caton Team and Berkshire Hathaway Home Services. What truly influenced me to choose them was their exceptional reputation for professionalism and attention to detail. From the very first interaction, I could tell they genuinely cared about meeting my needs and going above and beyond to deliver results. They provided me with confidence and peace of mind, knowing I was in capable hands.

I wanted to extend my deepest gratitude for the incredible job you did in selling my house. Your hard work, dedication, and expertise, specially during such a challenging time. You went above and beyond to ensure a smooth process, and your support truly helped me navigate this transition with confidence. I couldn’t have asked for a better realtor, and I’m so grateful for everything you’ve done.

-N.M

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The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
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Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

Client Testimonial – John and Sasha – Bellevue 2023

“When my wife and I decided to sell our condo and move out of the country, it was an easy choice of who to choose as our real estate agents. The Caton Team! It was Susan Caton that had helped me purchase the condo over 20 years ago and all I could remember was how easy she made it for me to go through all the paperwork and purchasing process. So, contacting Susan and Sabrina to assist us with selling the same condo was almost a perfect ending to our “story” in the Bay Area. Nothing had changed with the addition of Sabrina in the Caton power team – the easy, friendly and transparent way of planning and figuring out details of selling our condo was the very same I had experienced when purchasing it. The added difficulty of completing the sale while we had already moved overseas was not a hindrance at all. Online processes and meticulous advice kept us in the loop of what needed to be done and complete it on time. So, all I can say is a big “THANK YOU” to Susan and Sabrina, for being with our family during our Bay Area adventure and beyond!”

John and Sasha

Property Information

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The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties, Redwood City Ca.

DRE # | Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 | Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

Protect Your Home with Clean and Efficient Gutters

Gutter and Downspout Maintenance

Clean, efficient gutters and downspouts are essential to keeping water channeled away from your roof, walls, foundation and landscape. Experts generally recommend cleaning your gutters twice a year in the spring and fall. If you have a lot of trees (especially pines) near your home you may need to clean gutters more often.

Letting leaves and debris pile up can damage your roof as well as your fascia and gutters. The excess weight of debris and standing water can cause them to sag and pull away.

It is also important to check that the gutters are sloped toward the downspout and the downspouts drain away from the foundation. You may need to add an extension or a splash block for added protection to divert the runoff. If you shop around for splash blocks, you will find many choices such as sculptured/decorative stone, aluminum, concrete, and plastic.

If you are able to clean the gutters safely yourself, a ladder on firm, secure ground is best. It can be dangerous attempting maintenance from on top of the roof. If your home is on a hillside or too tall to access with a ladder, consult a professional.

To get started, clean leaves and debris from the downspout end first, and work away to the other end. Check with your local home improvement store for hose attachments made specifically for gutter cleaning. If your downspout is clogged, check the downspout strainer(s) and be sure it is clear. Check your gutter for leaks by running a hose with water. If your gutter has leaks, first be sure the seam/connection is tight and seal the joints with gutter sealant. Use the proper product for your gutter material, whether aluminum, fiberglass or other. Once cleaned and repaired, you may want to use one of the many products available to help keep them free of debris. One option is to install gutter covers. There are many types, including screens, grates and foam. Look online to research products and installation instructions.

Noisy Downspouts

There’s nothing quite like the loud pinging sound of a noisy downspout in the middle of the night. Generally this sound comes from the elbow, or bend, in the downspout. When the dripping water hits a hard surface it can amplify it to an annoying level.

There are a few do-it-yourself fixes you can try (no guarantees!).

Attach a piece of 1/4” or 3/8” poly rope inside the downspout. The rope can channel the water and eliminate the excessive sound.
Attach a scrubbing sponge (or look for gutter sponges online) to the inside of the downspout where the water hits the elbow. This should soften or eliminate the sound.
Try a decorative downspout such as a “rain chain.” Shop around for a style that complements the design of your home.

I read this article HERE

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The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

Fall To-Do Checklist

The scent of fall is in the air. Time to bake an apple pie, crunch some leaves on a long walk, and carve the family pumpkin. It’s also time for some fall home maintenance. Use our fall checklist as a reminder to do important seasonal tasks like cleaning the gutters, replacing air filters, and getting the fireplace ready for the coming winter.

I read this article HERE

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Got Real Estate Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

Plumbing Maintenance Tips

Performing basic maintenance for the plumbing systems in your home can go a long way to preventing bigger issues from erupting. Here are eight DIY maintenance tips that can help minimize the number of trips to your house from your plumber, particularly if your home has experienced plumbing problems in the past.

Eight Essentials to Good Plumbing Maintenance

Fix leaks and clogs immediately. Plumbing issues like these can quickly turn simple repairs into expensive ones and/or lead to water damage and unhealthy mold or mildew buildup.
Use non-toxic drain cleaners. A solution of baking soda and vinegar can clear most minor drain clogs.
Keep drains object-free. Install properly fitting drain screens and sink stoppers to prevent food, hair, and other things that can stop up pipes from going down the drain.
Learn what your disposal can eat. Not everything can be chewed up by the kitchen disposal. Check your manufacturer’s manual for specifics, but as a general rule, never put cooking grease, coffee grinds, egg shells, pasta or rice in your disposal.
Buy the right tools. Be sure you have a plumber’s wrench in your toolbox as well as a sturdy plunger.
Know locations for all shut-off valves. Your home’s washing machine, sink, toilet, and water heater all have shut-off valves. Know where they are as well as your home’s main water shut-off valve and any outside clean-outs.
Prepare for the season. Before winter, inspect the insulation around the pipes under your house, in the basement, and in the garage. Proper insulation helps keep your pipes from freezing and bursting.
Schedule regular plumbing checkups. Consult with your plumber about a schedule for the routine maintenance needs for your home’s HVAC system and water heater. Also schedule a snake of your sewer lines via your home’s clean-out at least every two years to keep pipes free of clogs and buildup.

Remember: your home’s plumbing has a tell. When you spot one of its tics, like a leaky faucet, water on the floor around a dishwasher or refrigerator, or mildew around a sink, shower, or tub, don’t hesitate to act. It’s a sign that you have some maintenance to do.

I read this article HERE

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The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

Home Maintenance for Your Hardwood Floors

One of the best and biggest investments in your home – is the flooring. Take care of your hardwood today and it will last generations. If you have any updating questions – curious which updates bring more value to your home? Contact The Caton Team – we’re happy to help! -Sabrina

How To Care for Your Hardwood Floors

Hardwood is one of the oldest flooring materials and is still considered one of the best. Hardwood floors are natural, beautiful, and durable, especially if you maintain them. With good maintenance, they will last longer, look better, and add value to your home.

Make daily dusting and sweeping, with a scratch-free cloth or broom, part of your daily maintenance routine. When you need to vacuum hardwood, be sure to use the soft brush attachment, never the rotating brush roll, or as it’s known in older vacuums, the beater bar. Then, as needed, mop with the wood floor cleaning product recommended for your floor’s type and finish.

Wood floors need a protective finish. Unfinished wood floors require finishing with a protective sealer immediately after installation. Factory-finished floors are sanded, sealed, and ready to use right out of the box. If you have solid hardwood, you may need to add a finishing coat every few years, or eventually sand and refinish decades down the road. If you have engineered hardwood, which is a veneer, sanding and refinishing may be an option one-time only, depending on the thickness of the veneer.

Tips for Cleaning Your Hardwood Floors

Use only wood floor care products; never use vinyl or tile cleaning products.
If you prefer a natural cleaner, like vinegar and water, do your research. Your floors must be well sealed, and the vinegar-to-water pH balance can’t be too acidic, and you must wipe the floors dry immediately.
Most experts advise that you don’t use water to wet or steam mop wood floors.

Tips for Protecting Hardwood Floors

Use felt or rubber protectors on the bottom of furniture legs and never drag furniture on wood flooring.
Use area rugs in high-traffic areas, in front of exterior doorways, as well as in front of the kitchen sink.
Remove shoes at the door, especially high heels or cleats.
Slow down fading by keeping direct sunlight off your floors. Use window coverings to redirect, diffuse, or block UV light. UV-resistant finishes are also available.
Keep dogs’ nails trimmed, or restrict them from hardwood areas.
Wipe up spills immediately; standing liquid can damage wood floors.

Tips for Scratches and Squeaks

For deep or surface scratches, touch up using a stain stick for wood that matches your floor’s finish.
For squeaky floors, if possible, it’s best to repair from underneath which may need to be done by a professional. There are products that include a combination of lubricant and powder, which you can try using on the surface between the planks, but effectiveness may be limited.

Homeowner Tips

Did you know that hardwood floors are among the many home improvements that will pay homeowners back over the long run?
Wondering about other remodeling projects to add value to your home? Learn about the best remodeling investments you can make.
On a budget? Try these inexpensive, DIY home improvement projects to give your home a fresh look.

I read this article HERE

Got Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

Effective. Efficient. Responsive. The Caton Team 🏡 How can The Caton Team help You?

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Got Real Estate Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

Is Artificial Grass Right for You?

Artificial grass has come a long way since AstroTurf first hit the playing fields (and maybe your grandmother’s patio). With the ongoing drought in the West, the new, improved artificial grass is becoming more and more popular for sunny, low-rainfall areas, as well as with pet owners, and people who are just tired of lawn maintenance. Today’s synthetic grass is colored and textured to look like various grass types, so you can likely get a look very similar to what you could grow naturally. It is not without its drawbacks, however. Artificial grass is not cheap. Installed costs can run from $10 to $20 per square foot. Compared to natural grass, it can take up to seven to eight years to recoup the initial cost of artificial turf. It isn’t easy to install either, so it might not be the best DIY project.

Best Uses for Artificial Grass

Artificial turf is a good solution if you have an area where grass simply won’t grow because conditions are shady or wet. Artificial grass is a popular option with dog owners for pet runs, or if you have multiple dogs that are wearing out your natural lawn. Artificial greenery is also a great option for places like a small patio or outside space. It also works great for defined shapes within a yard where real grass edges can be tough to mow and keep weed-free.

Pros:

No need to water your lawn
No weeding or mowing
No need for fertilizers or pesticides
Looks very similar to natural grass: soft, even, and green
Does not get muddy or rutted (and keeps your house cleaner)

Cons:

Expensive
Needs to be cleaned off with water and sanitizing agents (more frequently if you have dogs)
Not easily recycled
Heats up in direct sun
Banned by some homeowners associations and municipalities

The Bottom Line

If you love the look of green grass and plan to be in your house for a while then it’s worth considering an artificial lawn. For pet owners, it can be a great solution, but remember it can’t absorb and break down pet urine, so it will require washing (which does take water). Although it’s not maintenance-free, it certainly requires less maintenance than real grass. Remember to check with your city or HOA about their rules for artificial grass.

I read this article HERE

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Effective. Efficient. Responsive. The Caton Team 🏡 How can The Caton Team help You?

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Got Real Estate Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

How to Create a Home Maintenance Log

With a homeowner’s maintenance log you can keep track of maintenance and repair details about your home as well as improvements, updates, and upgrades you make over the years. You can store appliance and system manuals and instructions, warranties, and other resources, like where to shut off utilities.

To create your own home maintenance log, first collect and organize important materials in a binder or expandable folder. Add pockets or sleeves to organize receipts, manuals, floorplans, warranties, and so on. If you prefer a paperless version, you’ll need to take time to scan all these documents. Microsoft Excel has a great Home Maintenance Schedule template that is easy to customize and update.

What to include:

Manuals and warranties – File home system and appliance instructions, maintenance records, and home warranty information. If you have a home warranty, keep a copy of the contract in the binder.
Maintenance receipts and contact information
- Keep receipts and contact information from service providers such as: carpet cleaners, HVAC, garage door opener repair, chimney sweep, gutter repair, roof inspection/repair, solar panel cleaning, and more.
- If you have a home warranty plan for your systems and appliances, include service call information, repairs, and all contact information.
- List previously used service providers that you would recommend, such as painters, yard service, and pest control.

Homeowner maintenance records – It can be easy to lose track of when you last performed maintenance so be sure to keep records of gutter cleaning/repair, painting, repairing decks and walkways, HVAC filter replacements, sprinkler systems, and window cleaning, including slides and screens.

Home improvements

Keep track of interior improvements including overhead lighting, fans, smart thermostats, storage systems, and dimmer switches, as well as low flow toilets and showerheads. Be sure to include information about refinishing/replacing of floors or cabinets.
Record exterior improvements such as landscaping and sprinkler systems, exterior lighting, solar panels, window upgrades, pool resurfacing, fencing, decks, tree removal, and so on.
Include specifics – When you paint, record the brand and color formula in your maintenance log. If your replace the roof, keep track of the type of material, color, manufacturer, and warranty info.

Maps and resources – Record the location of shutoffs for the main water, gas, and electrical, as well as the electrical panel. If your home is on a well and/or septic system, map the well, septic tanks, and leach field/lines. Include location of solar panel control/displays and sprinkler junction box.
Neighborhood information – Include information on HOA guidelines and fees and how to contact your Homeowners’ Association, if applicable.

A Great Selling Tool

When it comes time to sell your home, your home maintenance log is also a valuable reference that demonstrates how well you’ve cared for your home. Providing this kind of comprehensive record can really inspire confidence for the buyer who wants to purchase your home.

I read this article HERE

Got Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

Effective. Efficient. Responsive. The Caton Team 🏡 How can The Caton Team help You?

Get exclusive inside access when you follow us on Facebook & Instagram

Got Real Estate Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third-party information not verified.

Got Questions? The Caton Team is here to help.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

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Best Uses for Artificial Grass

Pros:

Cons:

The Bottom Line

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