Chic vs. Geek: Backyard Summer Fun

Students are heading back to school, but it’s not too late to seize the waning days of summer — from the comfort of your backyard!

CHIC (PEARL)

I like to go romantic and relaxing! Bask in the warm summer nights with a movie under the stars. Make yourself comfortable and project a summer classic. Just don’t forget the popcorn! Want to treat yourself? Turn your outdoor space into a spa with relaxing mud masks and body scrubs. Detox and exfoliate while safely soaking up some Vitamin D. Or pitch a tent in the backyard and line it with pillows and blankets or a big air mattress for a romantic getaway — at home.

GEEK (KEVIN)

As you might’ve guessed, for me, everything is much better with food. Bring the gourmet to the great outdoors with campfire fondue! Gather around the firepit — real or gas — melt your favorite delicacies, and serve them alongside fresh fruits and veggies. Make the fondue sweet or savory using cheese or chocolate. Speaking of chocolate, three simple ingredients and an open flame add up to the summer's most iconic treat and my favorite outdoor dessert: s’mores!

Summertime, and the livin's fizzy!

It’s Summertime, and the livin’ is easy, especially when you can kick back and enjoy one of these refreshing beverages on your backyard patio!

Geek's Number Talk: Market Snapshot - San Mateo County

Like it’s been for months now, the market stayed hot in June, especially in San Mateo County, where home sales are up and the median price is 25% higher than one year ago at the height of the pandemic.

Meanwhile, condo sales volume and prices are up, but properties are staying on the market longer than they were last year. This could be a byproduct of buyers seeking more space for working from home in the new normal.

Chic vs. Geek: How to Sell a Home in the Summertime

The weather is heating up, and the local housing market is already hot. But you can’t count on momentum to get you the sale price you want. What can you do to improve your chances?

CHIC (PEARL)

Like the saying goes, you only get one chance to make a first impression. Spend some time upgrading your curb appeal by keeping your lawn freshly mowed, decorating with new plants and ground coverings, and touching up the paint job. Speaking of paint, color is an extremely important factor in home sales. During the summer, add some lighter tones to brighten up your look. Security also adds value. Try framing your walkways and driveways with lights for a stylish touch.

GEEK (KEVIN)

Buyers are busy shuffling between open houses and all their usual errands, especially if they have kids home from school. Make sure your schedule is flexible enough to meet a buyer when and where they are available. Don’t make them wait for you. And definitely do not skimp on the air conditioning! House hunters will want to escape the heat, and stepping into a nice cool home will instantly put them at ease. You don’t want an ice box either, so set the thermostat at a comfortable level.

A good home is hard to find

You don’t have to take our word for it. Housing demand and short supply is making this a sellers’ market, and bidding wars are becoming more common. Think you’ve had a rough time? NPR has the story of a couple who bid on 40 homes — with nothing to show for it.