As COVID eviction moratoriums expire up and down the state, investment in rental properties is on the rise and back to pre-pandemic levels. Meanwhile, the wages and wealth of renters have remained pretty much stagnant for the better part of this century, while homeowners have seen a surge in their net worth since the early 90s, despite the housing bubble bursting in 2007-08.
We both wanted to get away for New Year’s to take a break and recharge our batteries. But as usual, we had a hard time deciding which way to go – ocean or mountains? In the end, we decided to do both!
The warmth of the sun was calling my name, so Oahu, Hawai’i was my choice for our New Year's vacation. We enjoyed epic sunrises and sunsets, tropical plants, soothing ocean waters, Mai Tais, chocolate, pineapple, shaved ice, seafood — yes, lots of fresh seafood — and of course, turtles! That’s not to mention some of the friendliest people on the planet. Everyone you meet smiles back at you. It’s like a daily mood boost without meditation!
I prefer a winter wonderland escape, so after our island getaway, it was off to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, for snowboarding, snowmobiling, and mingling with wildlife (elk, bighorn sheep, bison, eagle, and swans were just a few that we spotted). And of course, we had to take a dip in the famous hot springs. With breathtaking nature like the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone National Park surrounding you, it’s a colorful cultural experience like no other!
All this cold and gloomy weather has us longing for warm blankets, hot cocoa, and the comfort of loved ones. It’s the perfect time to celebrate National Cuddle Up Day! So cozy up to that warm companion and stay dry while it’s raining cats and dogs this weekend…
In case you hadn’t noticed, it’s getting wet out there. Following a record-setting atmospheric river over the weekend, the Bay Area is about to be hit by another 3-5 inches of rain, 40-60 mph winds, and all the mess that comes along with it.
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We all have them, even if we don’t want to tell anyone else because we might jinx ourselves, like wishing on your birthday candles. But for reals, what are your resolutions for 2023?
I’m resolving to get outside! After three years mostly cooped up by COVID, it’s time to enjoy all the food and parks and wonders that Silicon Valley has to offer. In fact, I started a list of all the new spots that have opened up since everything shut down, and I can’t wait to start checking them off. But don’t worry, I’ll still bring my mask along and make sure my vaccinations are up to date. Better safe than sorry, especially when you’re having fun!
My new year’s resolution is to spend more time on fun projects around our house and our clients’ homes. One of the joys of our real estate work is helping sellers prep their properties to get the highest value and guiding buyers through the maze of inspections, repairs, and upgrades that come with making their new homes feel like they’ve lived there for years. I’m looking forward to dryer months ahead!
