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Berkeley’s 2026 BESO Requirements Guide
Big news for anyone buying or selling a home in Berkeley. Starting January 1, 2026, the Building Emissions Saving Ordinance (BESO) is getting a major upgrade with new resilience requirements that go beyond the current assessment-only process. As someone who's been...
Planning Your 2026 Real Estate Moves: A Guide to the Best Buying and Selling Seasons
Timing isn’t everything in real estate, but it can mean the difference between saving $20,000 or paying a premium, selling in 15 days or waiting three months, and negotiating from a position of strength or uncertainty. As we look toward the year ahead, understanding...
Can You Really Trust Online Home Valuations?
Can You Really Trust Online Home Valuations?
Berkeley Permit History Information
When I help clients buy, sell, or renovate a home, one of the steps I often recommend is reviewing the property’s Berkeley permit history. Knowing what work has been legally permitted and inspected for safety compliance can make a huge difference in understanding a...
How to Spot Real Estate Scams (and Protect Your Investment)
Real estate scams are targeting more victims than ever before, and they're becoming increasingly sophisticated. Nearly 10,000 Americans fell victim to real estate fraud in 2024, losing over $173 million according to FBI reports. Even more concerning, about one in four...
Navigating California’s New Fire Risk Disclosure Rules
California’s real estate market is constantly evolving, shaped by new laws, environmental challenges, and a shifting insurance landscape. One of the most significant changes taking effect this year impacts how sellers disclose wildfire risks to potential buyers. As of...
Knob-and-Tube Wiring: What You Should Know
Knob-and-tube wiring is a common topic in the Berkeley and inner East Bay real estate market. This early electrical system, installed in homes from the late 1800s through the 1940s, is still found in many of the area’s historic properties. It consists of...
August 2025 Real Estate Market Update
As we move past the midpoint of the year, the relationship between national economic trends and the local real estate market is becoming increasingly important for both buyers and sellers. My August 2025 real estate market update begins with the most recent economic...