Geek's Number Talk: Foreign National Homebuyers

It’s hard enough remaining competitive in the housing market when inventory is down and interest rates are up. It gets even harder when many homes are purchased by foreign nationals and businesses. Typically, these homes sit vacant, taking up space while their owners wait for a chance to flip for a profit.

Chic vs. Geek: Summertime Health

Last Friday, we told you that the Dog Days of Summer were getting underway. Looking to beat the heat while improving your mindset, habits, and routines? Below are a few building blocks to get you started toward your wellness goals.

CHIC (PEARL)

We all start our wellness journeys somewhere, and the best place to begin is centering yourself. These days, finding your zen could be as easy as opening an app. Check out some of our favorite freebies like Headspace, Calm, and Aura — or just try some simple.breathing techniques to get yourself into a meditative state. Want some tips? Send me an email today.

GEEK (KEVIN)

Meditation can help to clear your head, but it takes more than deep thoughts to improve the health of your temple — your body. Don’t have a home gym? No problem! You can build a low-cost personal space for improving your strength and fitness. Grab some yoga mats, jump rope, resistance bands, dumbbells, and more to create a gym environment.

Compass has partnered with GAIAM and SPRI in an effort to bring a healthy summer straight to your home! Whether you're looking for new weights or a new outfit, we've got you covered.

Market Update - Willow Glen

Willow Glen is known for tree-lined residential streets, shopping along bustling Lincoln Avenue, great schools, and friendly neighbors. Casual dining options include family-friendly restaurants, bakeries and pizzerias, and the neighborhood frequently holds downtown festivals, including art and wine walk events.

The Geek already did his Number Talk for this week, but we want to share some recent stats from local listings (see below). As in many Bay Area neighborhoods, homes are staying on the market in Willow Glen a little longer these days, and there are more homes up for sale.

If you’re on a budget of about $2M, and looking for a decent size home in the San José area, this gem of a neighborhood might be the perfect fit at the right time. Check our Properties page for a look at some listings.

Geek's Number Talk: 2, 4, 6, 8, How do we appreciate?

Sales may be down right now, but median prices are still up year-over-year. This is especially true in San Mateo County, where the market has seen a 13% rise since 2021. It’s a healthy reminder that the more things change, the more they stay the same.

Chic vs. Geek: How Prop 19 Actually Works

One of our clients sold his house with us and moved to a new home in Palm Springs to enjoy his retirement. We were happy to be a part of his journey in a new place. One part of that journey was understanding how changes to property tax laws thanks to Proposition 19 could benefit him in his move.

CHIC (PEARL)

With Prop 19, California homeowners can transfer the tax base of their current residence to a new residence anywhere in the state. Could you benefit from Prop 19? Visit prop19taxbreak.com for up-to-date information. One helpful feature is the graphic above that explains how the new law works whether you’re scaling down or scaling up.

GEEK (KEVIN)

It’s a good idea before you move anywhere to check the County Assessor's website where you’re planning to land so you know what to expect from property assessments and taxes. If you can take advantage of Prop 19 regulations, be sure to download this sample form. And of course, you can always ask us for tips. We’re here to help!