March 6, 2018

. ~ Above and Beyond the Sale ~ #Izabella #luxuryrealestate #bayarea #luxury #realestate #milliondollarlisting

The new tax bill passed on Dec. 22 limits the amount a taxpayer can deduct for property taxes plus state and local income taxes to a combined $10,000 - something Bay Area homeowners and home buyers should be aware of when calculating their property taxes into their monthly payment.
The new tax changes by themselves are not expected to impact home values in the same manner that low inventory and continued low mortgage interest rates typically do.
Homeowners who would normally be in the market to sell and trade up may decide to hold off selling. This would lower the inventory of homes, which typically drives up prices. Conversely, a continued strong market will only motivate a new crop of homeowners looking to downsize. 
In addition to the cap on deductions noted above, the new law will end deductions for interest on home equity loans, unless the proceeds are used directly on home improvements, a shift that will influence homeowners looking to renovate their properties starting this year.
Bottom line: While some Bay Area homeowners may face a bump in their tax bill beginning this year, the value of Bay Area homes is expected to remain strong and buyer interest will continue to breathe life into our market.
This article provides generic information from third party sources about changes in the federal tax law which have not and will not be verified by Broker, who is not qualified to give tax advice. The applicability of that information to any given individual is unknown. If you have questions or concerns regarding legal or tax issues in general, or as it relates to your situation, you must consult with your own qualified California real estate attorney and/or tax advisor.

March 3, 2018

Smart moves

. ~ Above and Beyond the Sale ~ #Izabella #luxuryrealestate #bayarea #luxury #realestate #milliondollarlisting

1. Get pre-approved.
One of the biggest mistakes first-time homebuyers make is shopping for a home without being pre-approved
for a mortgage. Pre-approval is the very cation of the “borrower’s information and documentation to determine exactly how much it would be willing to lend to that borrower.”
The necessary documents include your credit report, bank statements, federal tax returns, and W-2 forms. Pre-approval is crucial in allowing agents and sellers to recognize you as a qualified buyer, determined to make an offer.
The very cation of the “borrower’s information and documentation to determine exactly how much it would be willing to lend to that borrower.”
With pre-approval, you know your budget, where to look, and you will be ready to make the offer when you and the right home for you.
2. Find the right agent.
It is important to understand what a REALTOR® brings to the home-buying process. Agents are the experts of their neighborhoods. They have access to market “pocket listings.” They will guide you through the negotiation process and become your advocate in the market “pocket listings.” They will guide you through the negotiation process and become your advocate in the transaction process. Your agent is the liaison between you and the seller.
Realtor.com is great resources for ending quality agents. Remember to ask for at least three references.
3. Get a home inspection.
It will remove uncertainty about the condition of a home, saving you time and money in negotiation with the seller. A typical home inspection includes major home systems, such as plumbing, electrical, and heating. The inspector begins with the roof and makes their way to the foundation of the home. Radon and water tests may be included. A home inspection can range from $300-500. Be sure to hire a quali end and experienced home inspector. Consider well-stablished companies, such as BPG Inspections, whose inspectors are ASHI-certify end and undergo thorough background checks.
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March Calendar
3/11: Daylight Saving Time begins 
3/17: St. Patrick’s Day
3/20: Spring Begins

Call me today for a free
and confidential real estate consultation
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Your Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist
Pull out those cleaning supplies and get rid of those winter blues. Make sure you are ready for the new season with our ultimate spring cleaning checklist!
1. The Kitchen. Keep your food fresh by keeping your refrigerator clean. Take stock of your cabinets and cupboards. Keep only your best snacks, utensils, and pots.
2. The Bathroom. Remember to scrub the toilet inside and out. Target the grout in the tub. Throw away old medication, beauty products, and cleaning products.
3. The Bedroom. Your comforter, blankets, and pillows need your attention. Do not forget the curtains and blinds.
4. The Living Room. Maintain your furniture’s appearance, reduce pathogens, and eliminate dirt build-up by cleaning your furniture regularly.
5. The Laundry Room. Give your washer and dryer a good cleaning to reduce lint build-up and prevent hazardous situations.
6. The Home Office. Throw away trash, organize, and improve aesthetics for more productivity.

This is not intended as a solicitation if your property is currently listed with another agent. These materials contain information and articles obtained from third parties. FNHW does not endorse the recommendations of any third party nor guarantee the information provided is complete or correct.

Zucchini Ribbon Salad with Pecorino Romano

Ingredients
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Grated zest of lemon, about 1 tablespoon
3 tablespoons nely chopped oil-cured black olives
1/4 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper like aleppo or ancho
2 pounds medium zucchini, about 5 cups when shaved
1 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, shaved into long furls
1/4 cup almonds coarsely chopped A drizzle of honey
Directions
1.
To make the dressing, place the olive
oil in a small bowl and whisk in the lemon juice, salt and pepper until combined. Stir in the lemon zest, black olives and red pepper, and set aside.
2. Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, carefully slice zucchini into long, thin, ribbon-like furls. When ready to serve, toss the zucchini in a large bowl with the dressing to lightly coat. Gently fold in the Pecorino Romano.
Turn out onto a large platter. Gently toss with the dressing to coat. Top with the almonds and a light drizzle of honey and serve.
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