Foster A Dream Donations

More Toys Collected & Donated

Toys Collected & Donated

Me with Ralph & manager

Thank you so much to everyone for their donation of toys to children at Foster A Dream. We collected six large bags of toys. I am sure it will put smiles on a lot of children's faces. My assistant and I dropped off the toys this week right in time for the holidays. When we went to Martinez to drop off the toys at Foster A Dream, we met one of the foster children that was in the system and is now a volunteer there. His name is Ralph (pictured above).

Izabella Lipetski's Annual Holiday Drive helps foster children

This newspaper article of Izabella was on the front page of the Real Estate section in the Contra Costa Times on November 25, 2011.

Last year's holiday toy drive held by Izabella Lipetski, Realtor with Harbor Bay Realty, at Alameda South Shore Center was an outstanding success. "Thanks to the generosity of the community, a wonderful assortment of toys was offered to the children in the oncology department of Oakland's Children's Hospital. I'm truly grateful," said Lipetski. "This small holiday gesture put smiles on the children's faces and brightened their holidays."
"Izabella's commitment to the children in our community is commendable," said Dennis Pagones, president of Harbor Bay Realty. "Her energy and generosity are to be applauded."
This year, Lipetski's kind efforts reach out to foster children in the San Francisco Bay Area. Help make a child's holiday season bright by bringing new toys, games, arts and crafts, dolls, sporting equipment and clothes.
If you would like to make a donation, please drop it off at the Harbor Bay Realty office located at 885 Island Dr, Alameda by Dec 10th, Izabella Lipetski can be reached directly at 510-506-2072, or at her website: www.IzabellaLipetski.com.

Alameda Real Estate Overview

Avg. Listing Price… $515,73

Wk ending Nov 09

Median Sales Price… $450,000

Aug ’11-Oct ’11

Avg. Price/sqft… $300

Number of Sales… 125

Oct 19 ’11- Nov 09 ‘11

Most popular           Avg. listing price

zip codes                        Wk ending Nov 9

94611                              $893,373

94501                              $527,552

94508                              $558,464

94566                              $845,479

94536                              $392,252

SF is Best City to Trick to Treat

Hope you all had a safe and Happy Halloween. Zillow produced a list of the Best Cities to Trick or Treat.  This year, San Francisco is #1 in the country trailed by San Jose at #6 - Bay Area, you should be proud.

Zillow has produced the list for three years now and for three years straight San Francisco has prevailed.  It makes sense though, based on Zillow’s methodology, San Francisco has it all when it comes to best places to hit the candy jackpot on Halloween.  San Francisco has the least amount of walking (key for those trying to hit as many houses as humanly possible like most people under the age of 10) and with the least safety risks (key to the parents of the candy-ravenous ghosts and goblins) .  

Here are the stats:

San Francisco

Median Home Value: $660,494

Walk Score: 84.9

  

Average Listing Price & Number of Sales are up in Alameda, CA

Average Listing Price

$514,638

+0.7%

Number of Sales

144

+2.9%

Week ending Oct 12th.

Enjoy Helping People Get The Home They Love

I recently helped two families find homes they love. One house I recently helped my clients close is 530 62nd Street in Oakland, CA. It is a two bedroom, one bath single home. I also helped another client close a condo on 4331 Fitzwilliam Street in Dublin, CA. This is a three bedroom, two and a half bath condo. Bringing personal warmth and caring to each transaction. I enjoy making people happy by helping them get the home they love and also selling their home at top dollar. Look forward to doing the same for you and/or anyone you know. 

U.S. Cities Where Homes Sell the Fastest

U.S. Cities Where Homes Sell the Fastest

By Paul Toscano, CNBC.com

September 20, 2011

Provided by:

Although the U.S. housing market continues to struggle, many local markets are doing significantly better than the country as a whole, with some places virtually missing the housing bust altogether.
While shifts in home values are important in any market, it's important for sellers to determine the length of time a property can expect to be on the market before it will be sold. The faster that homes sell, the faster an inventory backlog can be cleared, suggesting heightened demand and an upward trajectory in prices. Additionally, if a home is on the market for an extended period of time, it may may turn off prospective buyers and force sellers to accept less-favorable offers.
  To find the cities where this trend is the most extreme, real estate website Zillow.com analyzed the numbers to identify the cities where homes sell the fastest, according to the median number of days on the market. The numbers presented here are representative of home sales between mid-April and mid-July 2011.
During this time, the national median for time spent on the market stood at 117 days, while New York (168 days), West Palm Beach (175 days), and Indianapolis (180 days) were the cities where homes sold the slowest.
Also included in the analysis is the Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI), which represents the median measure of home valuations covered by Zillow. The information presented here also includes the proportion of listings with price cuts, the average amount those listings were reduced, and the “final discount from list price,” which is the average amount that was negotiated off the original list price before the sale.
So, where do homes sell the fastest? Read ahead to find out!

No. 5 (tied): Oakland, CA; Photo: Tim Griffith | Getty Images

5. (Tied) Oakland, California
Median time to sell: 81 days
Zillow Home Value Index: $316,400
Listings with price cuts: 26.17%
Average price cut amount: 8.70%
Final discount from list price: 1%

No. 5 (tied): Woodbridge, VA; Photo: The Washington Post | Getty Images

5. (Tied) Woodbridge, Virginia
Median time to sell: 81 days
Zillow Home Value Index: $230,500
Listings with price cuts: 20.54%
Average price cut amount: 5.66%
Final discount from list price: N/A

No. 4: Alexandria, VA; Photo: Washington Post | Getty Images

4. Alexandria, Virginia
Median time to sell: 74 days
Zillow Home Value Index: $402,500
Listings with price cuts: 33.30%
Average price cut amount: 4.47%
Final discount from list price: 2%

No. 2 (tied): Seattle, WA; Photo: Danita Delimont | Gallo Images | Getty Images

2. (Tied) Seattle, Washington
Median time to sell: 73
Zillow Home Value Index: $347,700
Listings with price cuts: 33.55%
Average price cut amount: 6.88%
Final discount from list price: 2%

No. 2 (tied): San Jose, CA; Photo: Bernd Geh | Photographer's Choice | Getty Images

2. (Tied) San Jose, California
Median time to sell: 73
Zillow Home Value Index: $494,500
Listings with price cuts: 26.16%
Average price cut amount: 5.58%
Final discount from list price: 1%

No. 1: San Francisco, CA; Photo: Travelpix Ltd. | Photographer's Choice | Getty Images

1. San Francisco, California
Median time to sell: 59
Zillow Home Value Index: $655,400
Listings with price cuts: 22.55%
Average price cut amount: 6.05%
Final discount from list price: 1%

September 11, 2001

Ten years ago four planes would change America. My heart goes out to the victims, brave heroes, all of their friends/ families, all those who went to their rescue, all of those in uniform who have since fought to further protect America and all those affected by 9/11. On this day let us remember.

Izabella Makes Another Family Happy

I recently helped another family buy a home they love and make the real estate process enjoyable. The property in Dublin, CA was a two bedroom, two and a half bath condo at 3385 Dublin Blvd #442. This is what my clients had to say, "I wanted to take a few minutes to thank you, as we get settled into our new home, all your help for your exceptional professionalism, care and assistance with helping us." This couple is a first time buyer and is another family that is pleased with my service. It makes me happy to help others with all their real estate needs. If you or anyone you know is looking for an agent with professionalism and someone who cares, I will always have time for your referrals. Thank you. 

Bay Area Housing Market

After a strong month to month sales gain up to June, sales fell more after June, especially for homes above $500,000. Although sales are still higher than July last year, there were a total of 6,887 new and resale houses and condos sold in the nine-county Bay Area last month. That was a 13.9 percent down from 7,998 in June.  A decline from June to July is normal for the season. Foreclosure resales accounted for 26.6 percent of resales in July. Short sales made up an estimated 18,8 percent of Bay Area resales last month.

2 Properties, 1 Realtor

Izabella Closes Double...

http://www.free-press-release.com/news-izabella-closes-double-1312854364.html

Multiple offers through out the Bay Area, except the South Bay. There are bidding wars in the East Bay.

As for the Bay Area real estate market, there is low inventory and low sales volume. Sellers are waiting for better prices, and buyers are waiting for better inventory. So in the middle of the summer, the market is staying quite still. I am thinking that things are going to change soon. 

As of June 2011, The median price in Alameda County is $400,000. 

Compared to last year, the numbers are still down almost everywhere except Marin and Santa Clara counties. But most of the past year's loss came in the last five months of 2010, right after state and federal tax credits expired. Recent findings have been more hopeful, with prices rising for the past three months. 

There seem to be multiple offers everywhere except the South Bay. Three out of four East Bay transactions are now bidding wars. The same is true of San Francisco and the Peninsula, especially in areas like Cupertino where schools are strong. 

2011 Alameda Homes Median Price

Alameda median price compared to quarterly highs & lows

2nd Quarter 2011 Median Price: $599,500

Low Quarter Median Price: $555,000

High Quarter Median Price: $705,000

(Courtesy Mercury News)

SOLD- Mission Accomplished!

3165 Madera Ave, Oakland, CA is recently sold. Congratulations to Berenise Herrera! Izabella helped Berenise every step of the way by selling her home for the highest property value in this market.

If you or anyone you know is interested in buying or selling a home, please contact Izabella at ilipetski@gmail.com or (510)506-2072. Your referrals are greatly appreciated.

Mother's Day is coming up, May 9th!

A Mother’s Day to remember- win a special day out for your Mom

 

Give your mom an extra special Mother’s Day this year by winning her a day out in the city.

 

To enter the competition, just text your name and email to (510) 506- 2072- it’s that easy.

Or you can enter, by sending your name and email to ilipetski@gmail.com.

 

Start the day off with a $100 gift card to the Chakra Salon Spa where your mom can enjoy the spa with a massage and salon services.

 

One entry per household please. Contest ends April 30, 2011. 

*New Listing*

AFFORDABLE HOME!
SINGLE STORY.
ATTACHED GARAGE.
LARGE FLOORPLAN.
MUST SEE!
CUTE CURB APPEAL.

4 Bed/ 2 Bath
$235,000

Listed by Izabella Lipetski, Realtor, e-PRO, DRE #01372992

If you or anyone you know is interested in this home and would like a private showing, please contact Izabella at (510)506-2072 or ilipetski@gmail.com.

Harbor Bay Realty.

Alameda Homes for Sale

Izabella knows the real estate market and she is here to help you. Whether you are wanting to sell your home or commercial property, have Izabella get you the highest possible price. If you are looking to buy a home or a commercial property, Izabella is here to help you find the home you are searching for. 

Below please find recent homes for sale in Alameda. 

3022 THOMPSON AVE , ALAMEDA, CA 94501 
Price: $750,000 
Property Type: Single Family Home 
Square Feet: 1767 
Bedrooms: 3 


111 PURCELL DRIVE , ALAMEDA, CA 94502 
Price: $625,000 
Property Type: Single Family Home 
Square Feet: 2107 
Bedrooms: 3 

302 TIDEWAY DR , ALAMEDA, CA 94501 
Price: $539,000 
Property Type: Condo/Townhouse 
Square Feet: 1920 
Bedrooms: 3 


3543 MAGNOLIA DR , ALAMEDA, CA 94502 
Price: $475,000 
Property Type: Single Family Home 
Square Feet: 1549 
Bedrooms: 3 


65 MAITLAND DR , ALAMEDA, CA 94502 
Price: $469,000 
Property Type: Single Family Home 
Square Feet: 1236 
Bedrooms: 3 

If you would like more information regarding these properties, please contact Izabella Lipetski at (510)506-2072 or ilipetski@gmail.com. 

Receive a "free" market analysis at no obligation. Your referrals are greatly appreciated. You've got a friend in the business. You can find more information on Izabella, of Harbor Bay Realty at www.IzabellaLipetski.com. Find me on Facebook and join my blog (lipetski.blogspot.com) to get up to date information, real estate tips, events, contests and more. 

Izabella Lipetski, Realtor, e-PRO, DRE #01372992 

A little about Izabella…

*Over ten years of experience. *Masters degree in accounting. *Bilingual (English/Russian) & bi-culturalmarketing success. *Your property will be advertised in both the American & Russian market. *Excellent communication & negotiation skills. *Up to date marketing tools. *Work with a team of experienced, skilled & successful professionals. *Specialize in great service. *Committed to excellence, knowledgeable & extremely motivated. *References & testimonials upon request. 

Tips for Avoiding the Common Cold

There may not be a cure for the common cold, but there are ways to limit your chances of infection and alleviate suffering. Following are some tips:

Exercise More - Research indicates that regular exercise decreases your chance of catching a common cold by nearly half.

Let the Sun Shine In - Sunshine is a natural source of vitamin D, which helps reduce the risk of both the common cold and the influenza virus. According to researchers, people with higher levels of vitamin D are much less likely to suffer from seasonal illnesses, including colds, flu and even seasonal affective disorder.

Wash and Rinse - Frequent hand washing, combined with a quick gargle and even the use of a nasal rinse, can dramatically reduce the rates of infection. Use a saltwater solution for both the gargle and nasal rinse to help eliminate sore throats and sinus pressure.

Tips for Conducting a Home Energy Audit

Today's typical family living in a 3 bedroom, 2-story home spends about $2,500 in energy costs each year. To better manage those costs, consider conducting your own energy audit.

It's easy.

First of all, find out how much energy is being used, by keeping a log and reading your meter each week.

At the end of 4 weeks, add up the kilowatts used and divide the total by the number of days to get your average daily usage.

Once the audit is complete and changes are made, monitor usage again.

The next step is to walk around the house and check the following:
Inside:

• Any air leaks and gaps at baseboards and where the walls and ceilings end up joining.
• Air leaks around electrical outlets, switch plates, window frames and baseboards
• Gaps and cracks in weather stripping around doors, fireplace dampers, attic hatches and air conditioners
• Gaps around pipes and wires
• Air leaks from mail slots
• Rattling from windows and doors, and daylight leaking in around frames

Outside:

• Air leaks where two building materials meet
• Improperly caulked doors, windows and outdoor outlets
• Cracks in the mortar, foundation or siding
• Missing insulation in the home's structure
• Improperly functioning heating/cooling equipment
• Filters that need replacing on forced-air furnaces
• Missing insulation on water heaters, hot water pipes and furnace ducts

Real Estate Resolutions: Tips for Sellers

When a new year starts, many people resolve to lose weight, give up smoking and spend more time with the family. Others add seeling the house to their list of resolutions. Following are eight tips to help you decide whether or not to sell, and how to go about it:

1. Take a good hard look at your home. What are its strengths and weaknesses? Make a list.

2. Watch for sale signs in your neighborhood and go to open houses. Start thinking about how your home compares.

3. What have other similar houses in the area sold for? Most homeowners are a bit unrealistic about what their house is worth. You want to be on the same wavelength as your real estate agent when the time comes to set a price.

4. Research the market. How long do houses stay on the market in your neighborhood? Is it a hot market for sellers right now?

5. Know what it will cost to sell your house. Will you pay for a home inspection, legal costs, or renovations?

6. Spruce up the house. You know you'll have to do it eventually, so why not present your house in its best light now? De-clutter and finish uncompleted do-it-yourself projects. Outside, tidy up the property, sweep the steps and change the light bulbs. It will allow others to see your house in a new light.

7. Select a real estate agent who is familiar with your neighborhood and ask friends and neighbors for recommendations. Word-of-mouth is the best way to source a realtor with a proven track record.

8. Take your time. Selling your home for the best price may take longer than you anticipate. Don't add to the pressure by setting unrealistic time limits.

What's New? What's Fun? What's Hot?

Following are some useful links from the web that are sure to provide you with some interesting ways to save money and entertain yourself:

Think Ahead for Cheap or Free In-Flight Wi-Fi from Unplggd.com

This site has some terrific tips on how to save money and stay connected when away from home.
More:  http://tinyurl.com/2e48dox

Kid-Approved from Make

Sooner or later we all need a few fresh ideas of what to do with the kids. It doesn't matter whether you are a parent, grandparent or simply a family friend, these super-fun ideas are sure to make the time fly while everyone enjoys the fun. Learn how to make everything from ultra-cool rooms complete with chalkboard walls using chalkboard paint that you make yourself to LED dice and Storm Trooper helmets, all with the help of Makezine. These are so fun you might just want to try them out on your very own.

More: http://tinyurl.com/6atzoc

Top 10 Fast-Food Recipes You Can Make at Home from Lifehacker

This could very well be one of the most delicious recipe sites on the web. Discover the secret ingredients that make movie popcorn taste so good and learn why McDonald's fries are a family favorite. You can find out how to re-create some of teh most beloved fast foods in teh nation right in your own kitchen.

More: http://tinyurl.com/2b5uzjk

Real Estate Resolutions: Tips for Homebuyers

Planning to buy in 2011? Preparation is the key to getting the best deal when shopping for a new home. Following are some tips to help you get started:

Define Needs Versus Wants: Make a list of your needs versus wants in the new home. For example, if you have a large and growing family then four bedrooms might be a necessity, while a pool might be negotiable.

Select a Location: Spend some time driving around town, researching schools and local amenities, crime rates, and other safety considerations. Select 3-5 areas to focus your search on.

Get Pre-Qualified: Find out how much you will be eligible to borrow and begin the paperwork so you are prepared to move quickly should a great deal arise.

Contact an Agent: Ask family and friends, perform a search for real estate agents that specialize in your target area, or consider using the services of a buyer's agent. Let them know the price range you have been approved for, the type of home and zip codes of interest.

Read, Set, and Search: Sign up for automatic listing notifications and begin viewing prospective properties online. Ask your agent for additional photos, virtual tour links and a Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange report, if available, which gives the insurance claim and loss history for residential properties. Once you find a property of interest, take a few minutes to google it before actually driving out in person. It's often easy to see areas of concern from an aerial view as opposed to in person.

New Year's Resolution Success Tips

The New Year is a great time to implement improvements in your life. Follow these five simple steps to make and keep New Year's resolutions. These tips will aid in successfully attaining whatever goal you choose:

Step 1: Pursue what you are passionate about.

New Year's resolutions should be something you have to work at all year. For example, if your passion is to help others, find ways to volunteer in your community or budget money to donate to a favorite charity.

Step 2: Make a plan.

Include several goals and tips to help you through rough times. Keep a journal. Success is achieved through proper planning. Set goals and reward yourself after attaining each one. Join a support group.

Step 3: Refocus

At least once a week, revisit steps 1 and 2 as a reminder of why you made the New Year's resolution and prepare to meet your next goal.

Step 4: Determination leads to sucess.

New Year's resolutions require fortitude. If you have a setback, learn from it and move on. Think positive!

Step 5: Don't quit!

Have fun. Resolutions can be difficult and take preseverance. Find a inspiration and refer back to why you are passionate about making a change. Implement fun ways to stay on task to attain your goals.

Happy New Year!

Hope you all had a safe and Happy New Year! Wish you all a great year filled with love, happiness and success. For 2011 I plan to continue to strive for excellent service and provide my clients with all their real estate needs. I am here to serve you and anyone you know that is in search of buying or selling a home. Your referrals are greatly appreciated. Thank you for all your continued support, referrals and friendship.