Buyers in Berkeley should budget 2% to 3% of the purchase price for closing costs — typically $20,000 to $60,000 depending on purchase price, plus a Berkeley-specific transfer tax that can add $9,000 to $31,000 or more. When my clients start running the numbers on a...
When most homebuyers calculate whether they can afford a new home, they focus almost exclusively on one number: the monthly mortgage payment. It’s the figure lenders qualify them for, the number discussed during showings, and the benchmark used to determine...
Berkeley BESO Compliance Guide Your Complete Resource for the Building Emissions Saving Ordinance ⚠️ Important Notice for Berkeley Property Owners Effective January 1, 2026: Home Energy Score required before listing single-family homes and duplexes. Sellers must...
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...
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...
