It’s Tax Season!

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With pandemic provisions running out, most of us are coping with filing our taxes by April 15 again. Already filed? Congratulations! Here are some tips for the procrastinators in the rest of us.

CHIC (Pearl)

Even though I prefer to use a tax professional instead of relying on an app, there’s still a lot of paperwork to pull together, and it’s easy for things to get lost. For me, it’s as simple as collecting all of our tax documents as they arrive in a special basket next to the rest of the mail. This way, when April 14th rolls around, I know where to find everything.

GEEK (Kevin)

Paperwork is so old school. The best part about modern technology is you can procrastinate until the last minute and just send your accountant a zip file. Just don’t sleep on your property tax bill! Second installments in Santa Clara County become delinquent — and subject to hefty fines — after April 10th. Good thing they let you pay online. Learn more here.

Your Real Estate Horoscope for 2024

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Last week, Master Y.C. Sun, renowned fortune teller, astrologer, and feng shui master, shared his predictions for the Year of the Wood Dragon with the Silicon Valley Association of Realtors. The program, attended by over 150 members, was hosted by the Global Business Council in conjunction with the DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) Committee. These were our key takeaways…

CHIC (Pearl)

Master Sun noted that 2023 was the Year of the Water Rabbit, which did not bode well for the real estate market simply because of the characteristics of those elements. On the flip side, a Dragon has a strong sense of ownership and an ability to turn things upside down. It never gives up and releases powerful energy to accomplish its vision. And Wood, like a tree with branches, is a sign of limitless growth and expansion. This means we can expect a stronger year for the market.

GEEK (Kevin)

Master Sun also cautioned that “general predictions are based on ancient Chinese methodology and should be viewed with a discriminating eye and an open mind." As a numbers guy like me would expect, more accurate predictions can be achieved with a detailed analysis. I also appreciated his encouragement to get in shape, eat healthier, spend less time on social media, visit nature, learn a new skill, and focus on your family’s interests and safety.

Got questions? Contact Master Sun directly at askmastersun.com.

Will you be our Valentine?

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Whether it’s giving gifts or acts of service or just spending quality time, we all embrace each other differently. So what’s your love language?

CHIC (Pearl)

You don’t need to spend a lot of money to have a great time with someone you love. Sometimes a little adventure goes a long way. I like wandering off the beaten path and exploring the road less traveled. And I love new experiences that become old habits, like that restaurant at the top of a hill that you never knew existed and now can’t live without. Maybe we’ll go there for a Valentine’s dinner.

GEEK (Kevin)

Everything costs money, and even the best things in life aren’t free, no matter what the song says. If you’re going to do anything for your special someone, you may as well throw down. A weekend escape to a coastal retreat complete with spa days and bubble baths will set you back a few bucks, but the relaxation and rewards it buys can be priceless. So don’t be afraid to spend a little green to show your love.

Year of the Dragon

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The official Lunar New Year falls on Saturday, and it’s a huge deal in Korea, China, and most East Asian cultures. Families gather to eat and drink special foods and play games all day. Stay tuned to our social media for posts from Lunar New Year celebrations this weekend.

Did you know we’re entering the Year of the Dragon? Experts believe this year will be marked by ambition, enthusiasm, and creativity. Sounds like a typical election year! You should also look out for lucky numbers 1, 6, and 7 and the colors silver, gold, and gray.