Chic vs. Geek: The Real Cost of Closing
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After I bought my first home in the Bay Area, I didn't drive my car for six months because I couldn’t afford to pay for gas. Why?
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Number Talk: Bay Area Migration
/As you can see from this chart, the Bay Area is experiencing net negative migration, which means more people are moving out every year than moving in. And more and more often, Bay Area residents are migrating just outside the region to adjacent counties. Why?
Well, as you might expect, affordability is the most common concern, and a longer commute is worth the savings on housing costs. But these days, there’s often a lot of two-way traffic, particularly between Alameda and Contra Costa counties.
When they move out of state, Bay Area (and California) residents mostly choose states with no income tax like Texas, Nevada, or Washington, adjacent states such as Arizona and Oregon, or states with major high-tech centers — all of which have much lower costs for housing and basic needs. At the same time, California has some of the highest income tax rates of any state in the country, and the legislature is actually considering increases on affluent residents!
Meanwhile, people moving into the Bay Area come from just about everywhere — including a significant, but declining number from other countries. Please contact the Geek for a full report.
Monday Morning Gratitude: YOU
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You are a ray of sunshine.
You are a shining beacon of light in the dark.
You are a lighthouse in the foggy night (or the middle of a pandemic).
You are the reason that we do this job and look forward to it every day.
You are amazing!
What we’re trying to say is, “Thank you so much for your support!”
Chic vs. Geek: Pulling Up the Carpet
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With wildfires in our backyard and a hurricane on the Gulf Coast, disaster insurance sounds like a good idea.
Read MoreA gentle reminder to be prepared
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Did you feel it? Earlier this week, we were mid-conversation at a listing appointment in Milpitas when we felt a little jolt. Turns out it was a 2.1 magnitude earthquake! But even though it was just a "baby" quake by California standards, it was a good reminder to be prepared:
Make sure tall dressers, cabinets, and furniture are secured to prevent them from tipping over. Water heaters should also be tied or bolted in place. While you're at it, bring all of your appliances and utilities up to code. And don't forget to keep emergency supplies of potable water and non-perishable food in multiple places — especially water!
Need more tips? Let us know in the comments or send us an email.
