Your Winter Home Maintenance Checklist

The start of the New Year is a great time to take inventory of the past year, reflect and set goals for the year ahead. As your vision of 2025 appears before you, what does it include? For many people like you, it includes a picture of a new home filled with love, comfort and safety. But how do we make it happen? And where do we begin? Here’s some advice that can help you get the ball rolling.

I’d love to own property in San Francisco, but it’s so unaffordable. We can help you! The Heather Stoltz team is solution oriented, experienced and can help you build a plan to make your dreams come true. WELCOME TO 2025, a New Year full of possibilities and purchase programs from our city that give you both a Below Market Rate Option, as well as our leading edge down payment program, for use in fair market purchases. How many of you have heard of the Below Market Rate (BMR) program that San Francisco offers? This program provides education and assistance for those seeking a home subject to BMR rules for those housing types. There is also the great program DALP, a down payment assistance program for fair market housing that is not required to be paid back until you sell. There are great programs also with additional funds for teachers, nurses, doctors and first responders, adding helpful funding to bridge the affordability gap. Click here to explore the BMR Program . Call us at 415-505-9581. We can help you navigate the process!

There are more homes on the market right now than there have been in years – and that could be a game changer for you if you’re ready to buy. Let’s look at two reasons why. You Have More Options To Choose From An article from Realtor.com helps explain just how much the number of homes for sale has gone up this year: “There were 29.2% more homes actively for sale on a typical day in October compared with the same time in 2023 , marking the twelfth consecutive month of annual inventory growth and the highest count since December 2019 .” And while the number of homes on the market still isn’t quite back to where it was in the years leading up to the pandemic, this is definitely an improvement (see graph below):

Some Highlights: The #1 task sellers struggle with is setting the right asking price for their house. Without an agent’s help, you may set a price that turns away buyers and takes a long time to sell. To make sure your house is priced right, let’s connect. Because, if the price isn’t compelling, it’s not selling.

California is a beautiful state with a rich history and diverse culture, and an excellent place to call home. If you're considering a move to California, you'll find plenty of options for both urban and rural living. With a growing economy, excellent schools, and plenty of recreational opportunities, California is a great place to lay down roots and start a new chapter. Here are some quick tips from Realtor Heather Stoltz that can get you moving in the right direction. Schedule a “Vacation” in Your Potential New City When you move to a new state, you don’t just need to choose a city; you’ll have to select a neighborhood that’ll become your new home. Since evaluating amenities, commute times, and similar details online is tricky, schedule a four-to-seven-day vacation in that area. Choose a vacation rental over a hotel so you can get closer to the local experience. Then, spend that time doing exactly what you’d do if you moved there, giving you a realistic picture of what living in that area is like. Take a look at area homes for sale online beforehand. You want to make the most of your time shopping the area, so it’s wise to have a list of the homes you want to see prepared. Make Use of Virtual Tours An increasing number of properties have virtual tours, allowing you to check out a home or apartment using only your computer. It’s a great way to spot places with potential, making it easier to create a shortlist of locations you’ll want to tour in person during your visit. Declutter as You Pack Relocating items you don’t actually need wastes time, money, and energy. As you pack, take a moment to consider whether each possession is actually providing you with any value. If not, assess its condition, sorting it into one of three boxes: sell, donate, or trash. This process keeps you organized while making it easier to prepare for a garage sale, donation drop-off, or dump run. Use Your Move as an Opportunity Relocating presents a unique opportunity to reshape your career and follow your passions. For instance, if you decide to get a master's degree in nursing , you can open doors to diverse and fulfilling career paths such as nurse education, informatics, nurse administration, or advanced practice nursing. Many universities now offer online master’s programs, providing the flexibility to continue working while you study. This approach not only facilitates career advancement but also enables you to apply new knowledge directly to your current job, enriching both your learning and professional experience. Set Up a Grocery Delivery Since unpacking is a cumbersome chore, eliminate the need to grocery shop by scheduling a delivery for the day you arrive. Make sure a few of the meals don’t require much kitchen gear, just in case you need a day to get your kitchen in order. Sandwiches, frozen lasagnas, take-and-bake pizzas, and similar options all work well. Find Contractors You Can Trust Moving to a new state is hard, especially when you aren’t familiar with any of the local businesses. That’s where an app that can put you in touch with trustworthy appliance repair technicians can come in handy. Just fill out some basic information about your house and needs, and it will recommend reputable contractors and maintenance companies in your new area while also enabling you to discover more options. Then, you won’t feel like you’re guessing and hoping to find help you can trust. Use Your Alumni Association to Find Jobs Tapping your alumni association to find job opportunities is wise. Since there’s an existing connection, it’s easier to forge a relationship. Plus, many people want to help alumni from their alma mater thrive, so they’re inclined to assist. Consider Launching Your Dream Business Have you always wanted to start a business? Then don’t let the move stop you. By writing up a business plan, you create a roadmap for profitability. Include a company description, how you’ll sell services, your funding needs, and any financial projections, and you’ll have a reliable framework. Also, be sure to review the pros and cons of each business entity when making your decision about your business structure. Establishing an LLC, for example, can be an attractive option. It’s easy to set up with a formation company’s help, and it offers tax advantages while limiting your personal liability. What Living in California Costs Understanding what it costs to live in California is essential. With the right data, you can update your budget, evaluate job offers, and plan effectively for your financial needs after your relocation. Here’s a quick look at some key numbers: Average home value is around $709,000 Rent typically runs around $2,719 per month Utilities average $239 per month Groceries cost about $3,468 per person a year. Education and childcare also cost less here. For college students, $8,401 per year is typical. For childcare, it usually runs in the range of $13,400 annually. Settle into Life in California Moving to California offers a plethora of opportunities for those looking for a fresh start or a new experience. The state boasts a warm and welcoming community that is sure to make anyone feel right at home. With excellent schools, a thriving economy, and beautiful coastal areas, it's no wonder why so many people are choosing to call California their new home. And with cities like San Diego, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, there's something for everyone in this diverse and vibrant state. So, whether you're moving for work, family, or just to take a chance on something new, California is sure to exceed your expectations. For real estate experience and knowledge you can trust in San Francisco, contact Realtor Heather Stoltz today!  Image via Pexels

For digital nomads seeking unique accommodation options, home swapping offers an exciting opportunity to live like a local in destinations around the world. By exchanging homes with fellow travelers, nomads can experience new cultures, save on accommodation costs, and enjoy the comforts of a home away from home. Navigating this unique way of living requires understanding, preparation, and an adventurous spirit. In this article from Heather Stoltz , we'll explore essential tips for navigating the world of home swapping as a digital nomad. Understanding Your Location Researching the area where you plan to stay is crucial to ensure it meets your needs and preferences . Investigate local amenities, transportation options, and attractions to make your stay both productive and enjoyable. Connecting with your potential swap partner for local insights can offer valuable information to enrich your experience. This step ensures you blend in smoothly with the local community and lifestyle. Clear Communication with the Homeowner Establishing clear and thorough communication with the homeowner is crucial for a successful home exchange . It involves discussing all pertinent details, from expectations and preferences to specific house rules and logistical arrangements like key exchanges and cleaning protocols. This open dialogue throughout the planning process and your stay helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures any issues are resolved swiftly, fostering a positive relationship. Ultimately, effective communication is the cornerstone of a smooth and enjoyable home swapping experience, making it essential for both parties to be proactive and transparent in their interactions. Using Trusted Home Swap Websites Selecting the right platform is essential for a secure and reliable home exchange experience. Opt for websites with a strong reputation, user protection policies, and thorough verification processes to connect with trustworthy homeowners . These platforms also provide useful tools for communication and agreement on swap details. Relying on trusted websites minimizes risks and ensures a smooth process from start to finish. Investing in a Home Warranty Investing in a home warranty is a critical measure for safeguarding your property during your travels. Before making a decision, it's wise to compare available home warranty options , focusing on those with comprehensive coverage for systems and appliances. Selecting a warranty that offers convenient, mobile-friendly access and a robust network of professionals ensures reliable repairs when needed. This proactive step not only secures your home against unforeseen issues but also provides peace of mind while you're away. Contingency Plan for Unexpected Situations Creating a backup plan for unexpected developments ensures you're prepared for any scenario. Whether it's arranging alternative accommodations or securing travel insurance , being proactive safeguards your trip. Flexibility and a positive outlook are crucial when dealing with unforeseen challenges. This approach ensures peace of mind and a more enjoyable travel experience, regardless of what comes your way. Sharing Emergency Contacts and Essential Services Providing your swap partner with essential information guarantees safety and preparedness. From emergency numbers to instructions for using home appliances, sharing this information fosters a trustworthy exchange. This thoughtful exchange of information demonstrates care for your partner's well-being and ensures a smooth stay for both parties. Preparedness is a mutual courtesy that enhances the home swapping experience. Respecting Privacy and Security Upholding the privacy and security of the homes involved in an exchange is a fundamental aspect of any successful home swap. This means securely managing personal belongings and respecting the sanctity of your swap partner's living space, adhering to their house rules regarding pets, smoking, and guests. Ensuring the home is left in the same condition as when you arrived demonstrates respect and appreciation for your host's generosity. Such practices not only maintain trust and strengthen bonds within the home swapping community but also lay the groundwork for positive, repeatable experiences that enrich this unique way of traveling. Home swapping offers digital nomads a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in new cultures and destinations while enjoying the comforts of home. By adhering to these essential guidelines, you can navigate the complexities of home exchanges with confidence. Let these tips empower you to embrace the adventure of home swapping, enriching your travels with authentic local experiences and connections. Start planning your dream San Francisco real estate journey with Heather Stoltz —contact her today to create a personalized plan tailored to your unique needs and goals! Image via Pexels

Transition with Ease: Essential Steps to Effortless Career Relocation Preparing for a career-related relocation doesn't have to be overwhelming. With the right framework, you can streamline the process and minimize stress, costs, and time, ensuring a smooth transition to your new location. By implementing careful planning and strategic decisions, your move will be easier and more effective. In the following post, Heather Stoltz offers essential steps to make your move a breeze, and you'll find yourself settled into your new career in no time. Secure a New Job In the quest for a career-driven relocation, one of the first steps is to secure a new job in your desired location. To achieve this, leverage the power of job boards and employment websites. Once you've pinpointed potential job opportunities, the next step is to craft an impressive resume. This is where a job resume template comes into play. These tools allow you to build a resume using professionally designed templates that best fit your industry and personal style. With these templates, you can customize your resume by adding preferred text, selecting colors that reflect your personality, and even incorporating personal photos or unique images. Get Local Insights From Friends and Family Consult friends and family who reside near your new location. Their insights can provide valuable information about neighborhoods, amenities, and the local lifestyle, helping you make informed decisions. Investigate the local culture, schools, and transportation options. The more you learn , the easier your transition will be. You'll be able to focus on your career with confidence, knowing you've chosen the best place for you and your family. Find the Ideal Rental Finding an affordable apartment is a pivotal step that can be efficiently managed through the use of online platforms. These digital resources have revolutionized the apartment-hunting process, offering customizable filters that allow you to narrow down your search based on specific criteria such as price, square footage, and preferred neighborhoods. By setting your budget as a primary filter, you can avoid the pitfall of falling in love with places outside your financial comfort zone. Budget for Your Move and Beyond View your move not just as a logistical task, but as an opportunity to take control of your personal finances. Start by creating a comprehensive budget that includes every aspect of your relocation, from hiring movers to travel costs . This is a chance to practice financial diligence and foresight. As you research various moving services and compare prices, you're not only planning for a cost-effective move but also honing your skills in managing expenses and making informed financial decisions. By meticulously considering potential expenses, you're laying the groundwork for a more financially aware and responsible approach to your life post-move. Start Packing Early Avoid last-minute chaos by setting a realistic packing timeline . Begin with non-essential items and gradually work towards packing essentials. This approach makes the process manageable and less overwhelming. Create a detailed list and follow a schedule; organization is key to reducing stress. Remember to set aside important documents and items you'll need immediately upon arrival. Establish Connections in Your New Community Once you get settled, it’s time to establish connections with locals to ease your integration into the new environment. Join local groups, attend events, and explore online platforms. Connecting with your new community before the move can make settling in more comfortable. Relocating for your career doesn't have to be a daunting task. By following this concise guide, you'll streamline your move, minimize stress, save time and costs, and set yourself up for success in your new location. Remember, careful planning and digitizing your documents will make your relocation journey smoother than you ever imagined. Embrace this exciting change and look forward to the new opportunities awaiting you in your chosen career and location. For experienced help buying or selling a San Francisco home, contact Realtor Heather Stoltz today! Image via Pexels

Welcome to the highly anticipated San Francisco Housing Market Annual Report, where we delve into the latest trends, statistics, and projections shaping the vibrant real estate landscape of the Bay Area. Join us as we analyze the key factors influencing housing prices, rental market dynamics, and the evolving preferences of homebuyers in one of the most dynamic and sought-after housing markets in the country. This comprehensive report offers valuable insights for homeowners, investors, real estate professionals, and anyone with a keen interest in understanding the ever-changing dynamics of the San Francisco housing market.

Demystifying the BRRRR Strategy: A Guide for Property Investors The BRRRR (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) method is an effective real estate investment strategy that could yield high returns if properly implemented. By carefully following each step – buying at a reasonable price, rehabilitating to increase value, renting for consistent income, refinancing to recover capital, and repeating the process – you can exponentially grow your real estate portfolio. With the right knowledge, resources, and patience, the BRRRR strategy can transform you from a novice investor into a successful real estate mogul. This article from realtor Heather Stoltz will provide insightful advice for budding investors aiming to adopt the BRRRR approach. Forming Your Business as an LLC Setting up your real estate business as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is crucial for safeguarding your personal assets. An LLC separates your business liabilities from your personal assets, thus providing a safety net in case of legal disputes or financial setbacks. Additionally, operating as an LLC can offer tax advantages, making it a smart business decision for real estate investors. If you’re curious where to begin, you can start your own LLC in California with ZenBusiness , an online formation company that’s far cheaper than a lawyer but can still make sure your paperwork is filed quickly and accurately. Conducting Neighborhood Research Before committing to a property, thorough research on the target neighborhood is essential. Factors such as crime rate, school district quality, and proximity to amenities can significantly affect property value and rental demand. By understanding these dynamics, you can identify profitable investment opportunities and make informed decisions about where to buy. Smart Home Features Incorporating a smart thermostat into the home you're flipping can yield numerous benefits, making it an attractive feature for potential buyers. Smart thermostats are celebrated for their energy efficiency and cost savings. They allow homeowners to track their energy usage and create heating or cooling schedules, optimizing comfort while minimizing waste. If any installation or operational issues arise, there are plenty of online resources available for troubleshooting help. Document Organization Keeping all your documents organized is crucial for smooth operations. Consider digitizing your documents and converting them into PDFs for easy access and reference. This includes property deeds, contracts, receipts, insurance policies, and tenant records. Proper document management not only simplifies your business operations but also prepares you for potential audits or legal disputes. Sticking to Budget Budget discipline is key to maintaining a high return on investment (ROI). Unforeseen expenses are common in real estate, making it easy to exceed your budget if not careful. By diligently tracking your expenses and sticking to your budget, you can control costs and maximize your profits. Understanding the Numbers Numbers don't lie, and in real estate, they tell you where your money is best spent. Understanding key metrics such as cash flow , capitalization rate, cash-on-cash return, and return on investment can guide your investment decisions. Familiarize yourself with these metrics to accurately assess potential deals and determine their profitability. Improve the Kitchen When flipping a house, making strategic kitchen improvements can significantly increase the property's value and appeal. One such upgrade is adding a range hood . Not only does a range hood enhance the overall aesthetic of the kitchen, but it also improves air quality by removing excess heat, steam, and cooking odors. This functional feature can make a big difference in the kitchen's usability and comfort, making it more attractive to potential buyers. Being Realistic While optimism is good, realism is better in real estate investing . It's easy to underestimate the time, cost, and effort required in the BRRRR strategy. Being realistic about your capabilities and resources prevents you from overstretching and helps you manage your expectations. Reading Listings to Set the Right Rental Price Before setting your rental price, analyze online rental listings to understand how other landlords are pricing their properties. This market research allows you to competitively price your property, ensuring it's attractive to potential tenants while still generating substantial income. Implementing the BRRRR strategy requires careful planning, diligent management, and strategic decision-making. By forming your business as an LLC, conducting thorough research, crafting a detailed plan, sticking to your budget, being realistic, and setting the right rental price, you're well on your way to achieving success in your real estate investment journey. Remember, every journey begins with a single step, so take that step today. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell real estate, Heather Stoltz is here to help! Call 415-505-9581. Image via Pexels