Category Archives: Buying a Home

Property Tax Portability Initiative

Just recently the Board of Directors of the California Association of REALTORS® took a bold step.  They authorized a multi-million dollar effort to sponsor a ballot initiative that will allow all homeowners over 55 to transfer their property tax base anywhere in the State each time they move without a requirement to purchase a lower priced home.  (Higher priced homes will have a blended rate based on how much new value was added.) read more

New Homeowner DIY Tips

Buying a home for the first time is a huge step. But learning to maintain and improve it can be both painful and rewarding. The do-it-yourself experts at The Family Handyman (www.familyhandyman.com) offer the following tips for maintaining your home that will save you money down the road.

Create a homeowner’s journal. Keep insurance papers, repair receipts and all other paperwork pertaining to the house inside a three-ring binder. Storing your home’s maintenance information in one handy place makes it easier to find when you need it — especially when you consider selling the house in the future. read more

Design Do’s and Dont’s

Before you start your next home renovation project, consider your space needs first. HGTV and DIY Network offer these tips for taking on room projects that will give your home a fresh look.

First, think long term. Since most homeowners are likely to stay in the home at least five years before they see real appreciation, avoid installing the hottest design trends of the moment for expensive items like flooring, bathroom tile and backsplashes. Instead, design with affordable and more disposable accessories such as pillows and throw rugs, which can be changed out easily and quickly. read more

Pet-Friendly Moving Tips

Moving day can be stressful for pets, but you can help them keep comfortable and secure during a move by following these practical tips from the experts at The Pet Realty Network and Moving.net.

If moving to a new city, find out if there are any local regulations about pets, such as weight restrictions or whether they need to be on a leash. Make sure your new building or neighborhood is pet-friendly. read more