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Granite vs. Quartz: Which Countertop Should You Get?

Mon, 23 May 2022 22:31:41 GMT

Granite and quartz are two design elements that cause strong debate and division among homeowners.

To sort out the Granite vs. Quartz debate, we came up with 4 categories that show how the two materials fare.

First, let us define each material.

What is Granite?

Granite is an extremely hard, all-natural stone. It is taken from quarries all over the world, cut down to a size that is easier to handle, and then polished to a smooth finish.

What is Quartz?

While quartz is a natural mineral, the elements used in countertops are not completely made of quartz. Instead, quartz countertops are 95% ground natural quartz and 5% polymer resins (plastic).

4 Categories That Show The Difference Between Granite and Quartz

1. Design

Granite

Due to its formation (cooling and solidifying of molten materials), granite exhibits a wide range of shades and patterns. There is an almost endless array of granite countertops to pick from, and no two granite worktops are the same. Granite countertops can be a simple addition to a kitchen or a standout slab with interesting mineral patterns.

Quartz

While granite comes in different colors and patterns, you still have to look for the right piece that matches your kitchen aesthetic. Quartz has the look of natural stone, but homeowners have the ability to customize its appearance. The selection process with quartz is a lot easier because of this flexibility.

2. Cost

Granite

Some people save money by purchasing the material from wholesalers and doing some of the prep work themselves. However, the installation of the countertops must be handled by professionals.

According to CounterTop Guides, granite installation starts at $80 per square foot and can go upwards of $180 for the higher-end materials.

Quartz

To save money, you can also do some of the prep work yourself. Because engineered quartz is heavier than conventional stone surfaces, professional installation should be done. Professional installers ensure that the space is structurally sound for the countertop.

The cost of quartz installation ranges from $50-$175 per square foot, according to CounterTop Guides.

3. Durability

Granite

Granite is a long-lasting, heat-resistant material that can withstand a wide range of cooking conditions. However, granite's porous nature means that spilled liquids can discolor the surface, and a high-impact blow to the counter might damage it.

Quartz

Quartz is harder than granite and is, therefore, more durable. Quartz is not porous, so keeping the countertops bacteria-free is much easier. Since quartz countertops are not 100% made of natural stone and contain plastic elements, they can be damaged by excessive heat. It is best to use heating pads when cooking or preparing meals.

4. Maintenance

Granite

Granite countertops should be cleaned with soap and water or a basic household cleaner every day. Avoid stains by knowing the oils and acids that are damaging to granite.

Vinegar, wine, citrus products or juices, and coffee should immediately be wiped clean so they don’t leave stains. Avoid using cleaning products with high concentrations of acid as these can damage granite.

It is best to have granite countertops resealed once a year to ensure their longevity.

Quartz

Quartz countertops should also be cleaned with soap and water. Do not use cleaning materials that are highly acidic or alkaline, such as oven cleaner, bleach, and dishwashing rinsing agents.

Always use cutting boards and heat-resistant pads to avoid scratches. Damaged quartz countertops are more difficult and costly to repair.

Due to their materials, quartz countertops do not require resealing for maintenance.

Bottom Line

Granite and quartz are both excellent options for kitchen or bathroom countertops because of their stunning textures and long-term durability.

Granite is the clear winner for those who want the highest standards and want to use only natural materials, are willing to pay the price, and don't mind a little bit of upkeep.

Quartz is the best choice for homeowners who prefer high-end countertops with minimal maintenance and budget-friendly cost.

How to Sell Your Home: A Guide For First-time Home Sellers (Part 2)

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 00:53:48 GMT

How to Sell Your Home: A Guide For First-time Home Sellers (Part 2)

You’ve done your research and crunched the numbers in the initial stage of home-selling. The second part is a lot more exciting.

Here's where you roll up your sleeves and get ready to sell your home on the market!

Cooper & Associates Realty’s Guide to Home Selling (Part 2)

How will you persuade people that buying your home is the best move they’ll ever make?

This is the part where your — and your agent’s — creativity and marketing skills will be put to practice.

4. Get Your Home Ready for Selling

5. Create a Marketing Plan.

6. Make a Smart Showing Schedule.

4. Get Your Home Ready for Selling. Some home sellers tend to get emotional at this stage. However, being at peace with your decision to sell is key to a satisfying experience.

Take time to bid goodbye to your home. Getting your home ready for sale also includes an inward process of letting it go. It helps transition you from a homeowner’s mindset into a home seller one.

Below are a few things you can do to prepare your home:

Avoid unnecessary upgrades. Some sellers dive into overhaul mode, thinking that upgrading home features will have the property sell high and fast. Unfortunately, upgrades can add up quickly. Remember: not all repairs or remodels will have a return on investment. So, only do repairs on home fixtures that are structurally or mechanically defective.

Declutter every room. Some buyers may want to inspect every nook and cranny of your home. It’s best to be prepared by decluttering in all rooms. Start sorting out and organizing your stuff into the following categories: Keep, Sell, and Throw or Recycle. Categorizing things into what you plan to do with them will simplify and speed up the decluttering process. No time to declutter? Ask your real estate agent if they know a specialist who can help with decluttering or storage.

Deep clean your home. Deep cleaning your home makes it easier to do light cleaning prior to showings later on. Spray and wipe off counters with multi-surface cleaners, vacuum floors, scrub down toilet bowls and sinks, and wipe mirrors and windows with glass cleaners to make them shine.

Create a warm, welcoming space. A warm and inviting atmosphere will help buyers imagine themselves living in your home. Make your home cozier through ambient lighting and appropriate decors and furniture arrangement. Staging your home for buyers can decrease the time that it sits on the market.

Increase your home’s curb appeal. People move for many reasons. Find out Why People Are Relocating to Elk Grove. Don’t forget to work on your curb when getting your home ready for the market. A well-kept outdoor space boosts the value of a property. Mow the lawn, remove weeds, trim plants, and clean up debris. Adding some items such as flowers or a decorative bench will also brighten up your curb.

5. Work Out a Marketing Plan. You’ve decluttered, cleaned, and staged your home. It’s now time to show it to buyers! Tap on your real estate agent’s marketing skills. Cooper & Associates Realty helps you promote your home online and offline!

Here are some things to consider adding to your marketing plan:

High-Definition photos on Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Uploading your property description and photos to MLS formally activates your listing. Your MLS listing will be syndicated to top real estate websites instantly. So, remember to use only high-definition images and to capture your home from different angles to get the attention of homebuyers online.

Social media promotion. Social media has a massive marketing influence. We promote your home on various social platforms to get it in front of people within your area. Utilize the check-In feature or add hashtags to your posts so your home will come up when people search for your location or use your hashtags as search terms.

Virtual home tours and showings. Not all buyers will be comfortable going out and meeting people. Make sure to make virtual home tours and showings an option. This allows you to expand your market reach.

Network with buyer’s agents. Connect with local buyer's agents. They can link you with homebuyers who are interested in your neighborhood or are looking at your price point.

6. Create a Smart Showing Schedule. Some home buyers would prefer seeing your home in person before they commit. This is where home showings come into play. There’s no need to initiate or manage any communications with possible buyers regarding home showings. Their agents will work out a schedule with your agent instead.

Here are a few reminders regarding home showings:

Organize your calendar to include showings. Make a plan to be away from home on specific days each week so that your agent can schedule and book home tours.

Alert your agent for schedule changes. Call or message your agent right away if there are unforeseen changes in your schedule that will affect showings.

Streamline schedule sharing. Sharing schedules with your agent need not be complicated. Make a Google calendar, especially for home showings, and share it with your agent. They would be available to check it even on the go.

Cooper & Associates Realty has been creating smart marketing plans to sell homes for top dollar. We will work together with you to set this plan in motion. Before you know it, interested buyers will come knocking at your door!

What do you do when you see your marketing efforts paying off? Watch out for the final part of our guide to find out!

Read The First Part of the Blog Series Here

How to Sell Your Home: A Guide For First-time Home Sellers (Part 1)

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 19:01:45 GMT

Selling your home can be intimidating, especially if you’re doing it for the first time! As you prepare to say goodbye to your home, you are also looking for ways to maximize the return on your investment. You have a financial and emotional task right before you.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take that can reduce your stress and help you achieve the ultimate goal of selling your home for the first time. That is, making the experience both emotionally and financially rewarding!

Cooper & Associates Realty’s Guide to Home Selling (Part I)

Cooper & Associates Realty has excelled in helping clients with selling and buying homes for more than two decades. We have mapped out a guide to help first-time home sellers make this big move a great one.

This blog post is the first part of the guide. It will tackle what you need to do to get ready and get the ball rolling in the right direction.

1. Prepare your home and finances.

2. Work with an experienced Real Estate Partner.

3. Set the right price for your home.

1. Prepare your home and finances. Find time to evaluate your financial situation before you search for a Realtor, look for a buyer, or get your Home for Sale signage.

Here are a few steps to help you get organized:

Know how much your home is worth. How much can you get from selling your home? Years ago, the only way to determine the value of your home was to hire an appraiser who would schedule an on-site visit and perform a home value analysis. The whole process cost several hundred dollars and could take a few weeks. Today, you can get in touch with a real estate professional for a no-obligation home value analysis. Get a comprehensive market report and see your home value here .
Calculate your equity. Equity is the value of a home minus the amount you owe on your mortgage. According to the National Association of Realtors, the average homeowner with a mortgage gained $33,400 in equity nationwide between Q1 2020 and Q1 2021 . This is a significant increase compared to previous years and favors home sellers.
Estimate your net profit. Your home equity is not the same as the amount of money you'll make from the sale. You'll need to account for things like agent commissions, taxes, and other fees when you sell your home to get a fair amount of your net profit.
Start organizing and packing. Moving will take more time than you think. It's never too early to start packing! Start clearing out your things and putting them in boxes. Besides, you would need to declutter to get your home ready for showings.

2. Work with an experienced Real Estate Partner. There are numerous resources available online that can assist you with selling your property on your own. However, working with a stong real estate agent will save you a lot of time and effort and headache.

Here are a few things to remember when searching for a real estate partner:

Work with a top local agent. It takes the best real estate agent to deliver the best results. They know local neighborhoods well and can connect you with reputable service providers that you will need including inspectors, movers, home staging specialists, and so much more!
Get to know their relevant experience. How long have they been in business? Are they familiar with selling your property type? Every home seller has different needs and goals and it pays to work with a real estate agent who has ample experience and skill set to get you the outcome that you desire.
Determine how they can help you. What is their process for home-selling? Are you on a tight timeline? Need a seamless transition from your current home to your new one? This is the best time to let them know your preferences. At Cooper & Associates Realty, we can help you sell your current home and move to a new one!

3. Set the right price for your home. Getting a home valuation estimate was simply the first step. Now that you have a real estate agent and are closer to putting your home on the market, you must also choose accurate and strategic pricing for your property.

Here are a few things to consider:

Request a pre-listing inspection. Before you put your house on the market, get it inspected to make sure it's in good working order. Homebuyers may negotiate for repairs. A home inspection can safeguard you from pricing your home and then having that price reduced by tens of thousands of dollars afterward.
Read through your agent’s market report. Take time to review the marketing report from your agent. Local real estate agents should know your neighborhood well and can put together a comparative market report to help you zero in on the best price for your home.
Establish a pricing strategy. Don’t be alarmed if you can’t set a price straight away. Remember to consider factors outside of your home’s intrinsic value that could affect its price and overall market appeal. Some things that can factor into the price of your home include the surrounding views, a spacious and well-kept yard, and the safety and popularity of your neighborhood. The timing of your home sale is another consideration worth discussing with your real estate agent. Because they know the ins and outs of the housing market, they can help you work out the best pricing strategy for your home.

The initial part of home-selling is where you do the most research and analysis. Next comes the more exciting part — preparing your home for the market!

Watch out for the Second Part of our Guide To Home Selling in the next blog post!

5 Things To Consider When Looking For Your Dream Home

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 19:06:07 GMT

Dreaming about moving into a new home? Some buyers already know what they want in a house, while others need some help figuring out what they need.

What you need and want in a home would become more defined as you get closer and closer to the actual buying process.

Set your expectations to narrow down your search. This is a must so you don’t get caught up by marketing gimmicks and lose sight of what’s really right for you.

1. Budget. Browsing through listing photos can be exciting. Before you seriously consider a property, however, it’s important to be clear about your budget. An ideal home isn’t one that will break the bank. Remember: you would also need to be pre-approved for a mortgage before starting your search. This way, you can take immediate action when you finally zero in on the best house to buy. Set aside funds for renovations, moving, and other bills that you might incur along the way. Having a defined budget will narrow your search for properties to consider.

2. Location. Location is another top consideration when home-searching because it’s one feature of your house that you cannot change or restructure. Go beyond choosing an urban or suburban location. Determine your type of neighborhood and its proximity to the spots that you will visit most. Here are a few areas to consider:

Schools should be one of the prime considerations of a relocating family. If your kids are still going to school, research the educational institutions in your area as well as their proximity to your target neighborhoods.
Place of work is another important factor to think about. The closer the work address, the better.
Downtown is where you’ll get access to restaurants, entertainment spots, and shopping destinations. Is it important for you and your family to live close to downtown? Do you prefer to live somewhere quieter?

3. Property Size. The size and floorplan of the ideal home would greatly be influenced by your preferences and budget. However, the following factors should also be taken into account:

Long-term plans. Are you single and planning to be living by yourself? Are you a growing family? If your household is growing, look for a place with plenty of rooms and spaces to accommodate your changing needs. If you have kids who will be moving out soon, a house with fewer rooms might be more feasible.
Home office. Do you work from home? Are you homeschooling your kids? Find a house where you can have a separate space for work or studying to avoid distractions and maintain boundaries.
Personal favorites. Think of your favorite area of your home. It could be a garden, a cozy reading nook, a coffee bar, or a place where you can house your collection of wine, books, or other memorabilia. Find a house where you can have spaces that can easily be converted into your must-have spots.
Bedroom and Bathroom. When searching for a property, make sure the number and location of the bedrooms and bathrooms in the house match your needs and preferences.

4. House Exterior. The house exterior is the face of your home. It is what you will first see upon coming home and the first thing that will greet visiting guests. So, carefully consider your house exterior. Do you like rectangular or square houses with the door at the exact center? Colonial-style homes would fit your taste. Do you like a charming house with a porch and gabled roofs? Then, a cottage-style house will be more to your liking.

5. Outdoor Space. Homebuyers of 2021 are into outdoor spaces. Check out Why People Are Relocating to Elk Grove . With an outdoor space, you can grow your own garden, have an outdoor pool, a spacious garage, or a playground for your kids. If you want to have these things as part of your new home, look for a property that gives you great outdoor space. It will give you more opportunities to add your personal touches to your new home.

Finding your new home can be exciting but it can also get overwhelming. Narrow down your search by adding these features to your list.

Get in touch with us to find and close on your dream home!

How To Handle Multiple Offers As A Home Seller

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 18:56:00 GMT

There are currently more home buyers than there are homes to buy. If you listed your home for sale in Elk Grove or Sacramento, be prepared with the possibility of having to choose from multiple competing offers.

Make sure to play your cards right!

This guide will help you choose the best offer for your home.

What Does The Best Offer Look Like?

The best offer will look different for every seller.

The best one is the offer that fits your needs, situation, goals, preferred selling terms, price range, and moving schedule.

New How to Decide Between Offers

Make sure your agent knows your priorities. You and your agent should be on the same page when it comes to knowing your priorities for selling. This will significantly make it easier to sort through offers. For example, if you need to sell because of a life change like marriage or job offer, speed in selling the home is important. You might want to consider the earliest offer or cash offers so that the entire process syncs with your timetable.
Start with pricing, but don’t stop there. You’ll naturally be drawn to the highest offer, especially if it goes above your asking price. Remember: the buyer with the highest offer might not qualify for a mortgage. So, consider the price along with other conditions, too. Review the terms of the contract with your real estate agent. One of the many benefits of working with a real estate professional is that you don’t have to rely on guesswork. They can explain technical terms and set your expectations.
Consider the mode of payment. How the buyer will pay for the home is another big factor to consider. When the buyer will pay for your home in cash, you don’t have to worry about them qualifying for a mortgage. Cash payment means the deal is more likely to close. If the buyer needs a mortgage, consider if they are preapproved for a home loan. A preapproved buyer's offer is stronger than one from a buyer who hasn't secured financing.
Review contingencies carefully. Contingencies can make or break your deal. Thoroughly check the conditions that the buyers included, especially the conditions you need to do as a seller before getting paid. The most common conditions include property appraisal, home inspections, and buyer financing. These stipulations protect the buyer in case major house defects are discovered.
Determine if the buyer can close despite low appraisal. Expect the lender to order an assessment. If the market value from the appraisal is lower than the offer price, the buyer needs to make up for the difference. Go with the buyer who has the ability to close or cover a low appraisal.
Run over the “extras” offered by buyers. It’s a seller’s market in California. Find out what Seller’s Market mean for you here . Because of the current housing market in California, some buyers would include extras to make their offer stand out. A buyer may offer to pay for closing costs or include an escalation clause to outbid others by a certain amount. If you’re torn between offers with similar prices and contingencies, these extras will make a huge difference.
Have synchronized closing timetables. If you need to sell quickly, choose a buyer who has been preapproved for a mortgage and can close in a few weeks. If you need time before moving out, go with the buyer who can accommodate your moving schedule. Some buyers would allow sellers to stay for up to 60 days after closing. This is called a rent-back, although some buyers will not charge a rental fee to make their offer more attractive.

You are in an exciting but critical position to sell your home in Sacramento, Elk Grove, or nearby areas. Work with a real estate agent who can make this turn out even better! Cooper & Associates Realty is in the business of helping sellers make the best move for almost 2 decades!

Chat with us and let’s work on the Best Move You’ll Ever Make!

How To Get Multiple Offers For Your Home In 2021

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 18:15:43 GMT

Home prices are increasing. Houses are being snatched as soon as they hit the market. Real Estate in 2021 is hot!

If you’re putting your house up for sale, you’re in a great position to get multiple offers in this Seller’s Market.

Still, this does not automatically mean you would get multiple offers.

So, how do you guarantee to get as many good offers as you can rake in? What do you do to attract quality buyers and favorable terms?

5 Things Smart Home Sellers Do To Get Multiple Offers

You need to be strategic in positioning your house for sale — even in a housing market where buyers are waiving contingencies and are willing to pay more.

Here are 5 smart things you can do to ensure your house gets multiple offers:

Understand the Market. As with any project you take in, selling your house must be done with consideration, research, and a good amount of studying! Understand the market and equip yourself with the data to make an informed decision every step of the way. Do your research and make sure to work with an experienced real estate professional. Cooper & Associates Realty has more than a decade of experience in the real estate industry.

With extensive resources online, it can be tempting to go through the entire selling process on your own.

So, why is it important to work with real estate partners with long-established backgrounds such as Cooper & Associates Realty?

Well-experienced realtors have connections to help you present your home as strategically and attractively as possible. They also know the ins and outs of the home-selling process in your area. This knowledge can only come from years of working in the field. It will come in handy when you want to keep an eye on what's going on in your area and respond to whatever fluctuations that may happen. Remember that the housing market is bound to change. A real estate professional can offer you expert insight and guide you from start to finish, regardless of the state of the market.
Develop a Pricing Strategy. Finding the correct price for your house is tricky but it is key to attracting many bidders to make you an offer. Setting the price too low will undervalue your home while setting it too high can discourage buyers.

You need to settle on just the right amount that will have offers rolling in from the get-go. Apart from attracting multiple buyers, appropriate pricing will also shorten the amount of time your listing is on the market.

Start by pricing low to sell high.

Don’t think of the price you set for your listing as the actual worth of your house or the amount you want to receive. Rather, it is the price you set to attract as many buyers as possible while giving them room to bid higher.
Stage, stage, stage! Staging does more than just beautifying your home. It helps buyers imagine and see themselves living in their new house. Staging opens up your home to many possibilities and ensures these possibilities are known to buyers.Hire a home staging professional or start with these basic home staging steps:

Clean. Creating a clean space shows your home is well taken care of. Get the house clean and ready from the ceiling down to the floor. Make sure the kitchen counters and bathroom sinks are as spotless as can be. You don’t need to purchase new appliances. In fact, just leaving your own stuff on display will add an authentic homey vibe to your space. You just need to mind the details and wipe, scrub, and dust off your home fixtures.
Declutter. Decluttering goes hand in hand with cleaning. Box up toys, seasonal clothes, photos, decorative fixtures, and unique knickknacks that you have collected over the years. Decluttering makes your home neat, appealing, and more spacious. It helps buyers imagine adding their personal details and effects in the spaces and rooms that you cleared up.
Optimize lighting. A soft-lit lamp in the bedroom, natural light in the living room, sunbeams filtering in the kitchen windows — lighting significantly sets the ambiance of a home. Make sure to take advantage of it. Pull up your blinds or tie curtains in place. Turn on your lighting fixtures and replace broken ones, including the ones inside closets or cabinets. A well-lighted house is an inviting house. Plus, it will save buyers the time of finding light switches.TIP: Remember that staging is different from decorating. Decorating is using your personal style and preferences to spruce up your house. Staging is making your house appealing to general buyers. So, keep your home staging simple and reined in.

4. Be Creative About Scheduled Showings. After cleaning and staging your house, it’s ready to be shown to buyers! Give buyers a sense of urgency when scheduling showings. People would be more fired up to make an offer fast when they have a fear of missing out! Being strategic with your scheduled showings pushes potential buyers to take action quickly.

So, make sure to work with your real estate agent to book back-to-back showing schedules for potential buyers.

5. Establish a Deadline for Offers. Setting a deadline for offers benefits you and the buyers.

It will help you stay within your timeline of selling your house and moving into your new one.

It will help the buyers make a quick purchase decision. With a deadline in sight, buyers and their agents will work harder to make their offers stand out.

Get together with your real estate agent to determine the best date for reviewing and accepting offers for your home.

Selling your house can be one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. Practice these 5 things that smart home sellers do to get multiple offers.

Selling Your Home In a Seller's Market

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 18:20:10 GMT

Selling your home in 2021? One quick research online will tell you that the current California housing market is a seller’s market.

What is a Seller’s Market?

A seller’s market is where demand far outweighs supply. This is where the real estate inventory is short and the number of interested buyers is high.

This market condition puts sellers at an advantage. The tough competition among buyers and low real estate inventory push people to put in higher offers.

If you are selling your house in 2021, you have the ability to price your property high knowing that buyers are willing to spend more.

What California Home Sellers Need To Know

A seller’s market seems like a dream until you get caught up in the practical details.

For one thing, sorting through a bunch of offers can get overwhelming.

For another, saying No to buyers, some of whom have probably struck out on multiple houses, can have its emotional toll.

Here are 3 factors you also should consider when selling your home in the California housing market:

1. Payment. Cash payment comes with a few unique benefits. With a cash offer, you know that a buyer won’t have problems with mortgage approval. You can also expect a quicker closing period through cash transactions. For instance, cash sales can be completed in just 2 weeks, whereas mortgage closings can take as long as 2 months.

Here’s what not many people realize: the highest offer is not always the best offer. Whether you are selling your home yourself or with a realtor, always consider the benefits of a cash sale.

This doesn’t mean you should completely write off mortgage buyers. If you know and trust a buyer’s lender, you can be confident that the lender is able to get mortgage approval.

PRO TIP#1: Do your homework in researching lenders.

PRO TIP #2: Get advice from real estate professionals . Your listing agent should have access to a network of technologies and people that will help you sell your home with the most favorable terms.

2. Contingencies. The fewer the contingencies, the least likely it is for a transaction to fail.

Home selling in 2021 puts you in an advantageous position. As a seller, you can direct the number of contingencies involved, including home inspections. When a home inspection reveals repair issues, a home buyer can back out of a deal.

But if real estate trends are any indication, winning offers are waiving home inspections.

Another home buying trend is waiving home appraisals. It seems that buyers leave out home appraisal contingencies to make sellers take their offer.

3. Offer Specifics. Study the offers as best as you can. The more information you have, the better you can choose.

Remember: you are most likely to compare similar data. So, create a spreadsheet, and input the offer specifics:

Offer Price
Payment Method
Contingencies
Loan Amount
Type of Loan
Other Relevant Metrics

This gives you a clearer and better way of weighing your options.

Need more specific home selling advice? Want to sell but don’t know where to start?

If you’re selling your home in Elk Grove, Sacramento, or surrounding areas, we can help. Let’s start here .

Why People Are Relocating to Elk Grove

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 18:32:29 GMT

Are you in search of a California neighborhood to move into?

Elk Grove might be a good place to consider.

Why People Are Relocating to Elk Grove, CA

Great Location

Elk Grove has been considered one of the “favorites” in California — even before the pandemic has prompted people to move away from busy cities into suburbs.

For people relocating or living in Elk Grove, the community is “just right” and perfectly sized.

It is close enough to Sacramento that residents can still enjoy and take advantage of Sacramento’s amenities. As people move out of bigger cities in search of suburban houses, Elk Grove became even more popular.

Something for Everyone

Are you living by yourself? Are you moving with a partner or a growing family? Regardless of your living situation, you can find a great place to live in Elk Grove.

The community has a lot of single-family homes, big houses with spacious yards, or apartments — all in convenient locations.

Imagine your dream home and let Cooper & Associates Realty help you find it.

The Best Move You’ll Ever Make

There is so much more to moving than packing your things in labeled boxes. Before you even consider moving, you must first learn about where you’re moving to. It sounds basic, but learning about your next address should be done right. First of all, it lets you know if it’s a suitable location for your lifestyle, family, and interests. Secondly, it prepares you for what you need to do once you’re there.

Just as important as learning about your next neighborhood is finding a real estate partner to help you move.

That’s where our team comes in. We can help you make the best move you’ll ever make.

Start with a virtual home-buying consultation so our team can get the ball rolling for you.

The Emotional Side of Selling your Home

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 18:49:16 GMT

Behind the Scenes of a Flip in Progress!

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 18:47:35 GMT

Homebuyer Basics!

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 18:46:04 GMT

Your Complete Spring Cleaning Action Plan

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 18:43:34 GMT

Now is the time to get your living space in order!

Flowers are in bloom, the world is lush and green, and the sun is shining. Everything is beautiful and ideal this time of year. The only problem with the extended hours of bright sunlight is the fact that you’re now confronted with the dirt, grime, and clutter that quietly accumulated this Winter. What to do now?

Get to Work!

Your home should be your sanctuary – a place where you can easily unwind, relax, and recharge. Don’t undermine your ability to enjoy your space by putting off a massive spring cleaning project if it’s necessary. So, where do you start? The process can seem daunting, and the mere thought of tackling the job can stifle your motivation and energy to get it done. Keep reading to learn how to transform this overwhelming task into a manageable and rewarding experience!

Step 1 -Create a cleaning plan and schedule.

Whether your home is large or small, it is essential that you break down cleaning out your entire home into manageable chunks. Write a list of the rooms that need to be cleaned in your home, and then schedule the days you’re going to work on each one. Some rooms might need one day, and others might need more. The important thing is for you to break down this process into bite-size pieces. This will help you mentally process what you need to do while turning it into a streamlined, organized process.

Step 2 – Focus on organizing one group of items at a time.

Once you’ve made a list of all the rooms you need to clean and when you’re scheduled to clean them, it’s time to get started in room 1. It’s overwhelming to look at a mess and not know what to clean first, so you need to sort through things one at a time. For example, if you tend to leave important paperwork around with the intention of filing it, scan the room for unfiled paper and place all of it in a single stack. Sit down and go through that stack one page at a time and place each piece of paper into the appropriate file. If you’re not sure what to prioritize or where to start, check out this list:

Collect any garbage and discard it
Collect any loose papers and place into a stack to sort through
Scan all surfaces and remove unnecessary clutter
Collect any clothing and place in laundry room or hang up
(Optional) Rearrange your furniture! Doing so will freshen up your space and make your home feel new.

Of course, you can do the above in any order that makes sense for you. The point is for you to systematize the process of cleaning so that you can use your time in the most efficient way possible.

Step 3 – Sweep, Mop, Dust, & Vacuum

After step two, you’re ready to thoroughly clean your room. This step in the process will make your home feel new again. If you have hardwood floors, you need to sweep and then polish the floors with an oil-based, wood-safe cleaner like Murphy’s Oil Soap. This product will protect your gorgeous flooring and keep it looking its best.

If you have carpets, consider getting them professionally cleaned every Spring –- you wont regret this choice (especially if you have pets). Dust mites can cause allergic reactions, so buy a pack of disposable dust masks and wear one before you begin this part of the process to save yourself the misery of a reaction.

Many people dry-dust without realizing that doing so simply creates a cloud of dust mites that fall right back to the surfaces you’re cleaning. Spray your cleaner directly on the dust to keep it from flying everywhere when you wipe it up. Doing so ensures the dust is immediately immobilized, which enables you to banish it more effectively from your space!

Final Step – Enjoy your Space!

Now is the time to rejoice in your hard work. You can kick back, relax, and truly enjoy your space. Maintain the work you’ve done by scheduling in dusting and tidying up every week. If you want to add decorative items, now is the time to do so. Consider purchasing a piece of artwork or a new rug — you’ve earned it!

We hope you enjoyed this entry, and that you’ve found our tips helpful. What organizational tips do you find helpful when starting on a big project? Comment your thoughts below!

River Cats Party Contest!

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 18:33:20 GMT

Samantha’s Trip to Key West!

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 17:49:57 GMT

As an avid beach lover, you know Key West is at the top of my list when it comes to ocean destinations! While the weather can be hot and humid, it was pleasant during my stay. I got to relax, unwind, and rejuvenate on the warm, sandy beaches of Key West! This trip was tons of fun.

If you know me at all, you know how much I love shaved ice! This delightful little shop offered the perfect, refreshing treat for my friend Joyce and I to enjoy on our trip.

I absolutely could NOT resist taking a rest in this gorgeous, hand-carved throne! I felt this meme was perfect for the occasion. Don’t you agree?

YUM! These giant cookies were a welcome treat. Who could resist?

Our trip was full of fun evenings like the one pictured above. The tiki torches really give off the tropical vibe we love!

I hope you guys enjoyed this sneak peek of some of the best moments of my trip. I absolutely loved traveling to Key West, and suggest you visit if you’re considering making a trip to Florida!

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Market Update – August 2016!

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 17:45:15 GMT

How to Keep Pets Safe in the Summer Heat!

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 17:41:19 GMT

Although summer doesn’t start until June 20th, many areas are experiencing serious seasonal heatwaves already. If you are a pet owner, it is essential that you take extra precautions to keep your furry friends safe and comfortable during this time of year. Watch the video below to learn how!

Tips for Properly Caring for your Pets this Summer

1- Make sure your pet has access to fresh, clean water at all times. This might go without saying, but it is essential to remember to consistently check on your pet’s water level — especially when it’s hot since their consumption is sure to increase!

2 – If your pet is outdoor-only, ensure that they have shelter or shade available to keep cool.

3 – The cement can burn your four legged friends paws! Take them on walks early in the morning or late at night, and avoid bringing them outside during the hottest part of the day (2-3pm).

If you must take them out, consider purchasing paw protectors or an ointment to give your pet protection form the hot pavement . Click the linked text to see your options.

4 – Unfortunately, pets are also susceptible to sunburns, sun damage, and even sun cancer. Keep your pet out of direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time to avoid damaging rays. If you know your pet will be outdoors for an extended period of time, you might want to pick up a bottle of pet safe sunblock! Check out this FDA approved option here .

Six Steps for a Successful Move

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 17:38:31 GMT

Overwhelmed by the mere thought of #moving? No need to fret, we have 6 easy steps for simplifying the process!

Is all this talk about moving making you wonder what your home is worth? Get a free, instant estimate by clicking here .

Searching for your #dreamhome? See all available homes here .

Give us a call today at 916-960-4850 so we can start the process of selling your home quickly, easily, and at the highest possible price!

How to Get your Offer Accepted!

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 17:36:54 GMT

Why Hire a Real Estate Team?

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 17:34:43 GMT

Call us now: 916-304-3325

How to Make Great Decisions

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 17:31:24 GMT

The pressure of making the right decision often causes anxiety — but it doesn’t have to! Check out my latest video to learn a systematic way to make the best decision possible. Whether you’re deciding where to go for dinner or where to move, this method will help!

6 Homebuyer Protection Tips!

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 17:31:10 GMT

Buying a home is one of the largest purchases one can make in a lifetime. It is essential that every homebuyer take the necessary precautions to ensure they are protected in the process. The following steps are crucial, and show why representation from a licensed Realtor or Broker is key.

1 – Your Agent

As your agent, it is my responsibility to represent and protect you throughout the process of buying a home. Once you select a property, I will complete an AVID, or Agent Visual Inspection, where I will identify and address any flaws within the home and report them back to you.

2 – Home Inspection

Ordering a thorough home inspection is essential prior to purchasing a home. A qualified home inspector will check every nook and cranny of the house and report back to let you know if the home is safe and what, if any, repairs are necessary.

3 – Appraisal

Having an appraiser determine the value of the home is essential because it will ensure that you pay the fairest price possible. Appraisers will analyze the square footage of the home to determine if it’s correct, and will bring any discrepancies to your immediate attention.

4 – Title Insurance

Obtaining title insurance ensures that you are protected should there be any liens or title defects associated with the property in question. With this step, you can rest assured that you are the King or Queen of your new castle!

5 – Natural Hazard Disclosure

Now that the house has been inspected and properly insured, it is essential to check external factors that might negatively impact your home’s value, and that’s exactly what a Natural Hazard Disclosure will do for you!

6 – Home Warranty

Finally, it is highly recommended that you purchase a home warranty to cover any unexpected defects or issues that might arise within the first year of your new life in your home! This final step will ensure that you are protected should anything go wrong, and will give you the peace of mind to thoroughly enjoy your new home!

Thank you for reading/ watching!

Of course, feel free to contact us at anytime should you decide it’s time for you to buy or sell your home! Give us a call at 916-960-4850 and we can guide you through the entire process with your needs and protection as our #1 priority.

What I've Learned in my Career

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 17:29:07 GMT

3 Life-Changing Career Tips

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 17:28:48 GMT

As you may or may not know, I have owned my real estate company for 14 years. Prior to my Real Estate career, I worked in a high-level management position at a fortune 500 company. Along the way, I attained a BA in business and a Masters Degree in Organizational Management. Today, I want to share 3 basic success tips that have helped me immensely in my career:

Know your “one thing”

You probably have millions of things going on every day. Reading The ONE Thing by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan teaches you that it is essential to ask yourself: “What is the one thing such that by doing it everything else will be easier or unnecessary?”. For example, if you’re in real estate, that “one thing” would be lead generating. If you are an Olympic athlete in training, setting and sticking to your training schedule would be your “one thing”. Doing this creates a domino effect, where each action will have a bigger impact than the next. The biggest challenge is finding out what your “one thing” is, but once you do, you’ll be more purposeful and productive in your work.

Multitasking is a Myth!

This one might surprise you, since you’ve likely been told to hone your multitasking skills to be more efficient. The truth is that it takes more time to get the same workload done if you multitask compared to focusing one one thing at a time (see a trend here?). Multitasking means you’re constantly reorienting each time you switch tasks, something that takes lots of extra time. Multitasking also sets you up to produce lower quality work, and this is never a good thing! Instead of trying to juggle tasks, time block after you prioritize what you need to do to ensure you have enough time to attend to each item on your list – one thing at a time.

Lead by example

Whether you are in a leadership position or not, it is important that you embody your workplace ideal. Don’t ever ask anyone to do anything you wouldn’t do yourself. If you expect your team to work longer hours, be the last one out the door. Your co-workers and employees will be able to look up to you as a role model, and they will see exactly why they should follow your lead!

What tips do you have to share? Comment below!

Thank you for reading, and remember — Cooper & Associates Realty: “The Best Move You’ll Ever Make!”.

Pictures from "Exotics on Cannery Row"

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 17:28:31 GMT

I had a great time at the Exotics on Cannery Row show in Monterey, California this weekend.
This is the second annual Exotics show held at Cannery Row in Monterey. Click here to check out the official website for the event!

For those of you who are unaware, this event offers luxury car companies like BMW, Lamborghini Bellevue, Ferrari, and Porsche and more to showcase their rare cars — often ones that are not even available to the public!

Check out the photos below for a peek at the rare, unreleased cars I had the pleasure of viewing!

Secret Sauce: How to Prepare your Home for the Market

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 17:27:38 GMT

Are you thinking about selling? The time is right, you want to sell, but there’s just one thing you need to figure out: how to maximize the value of your home without spending too much in the process. Preparing your home for market is not as overwhelming or as expensive as you might think. I’ve been in this business for 14 years and have sold over 1,000 homes , and I can confidently say that following these 4 simple steps will transform your home and attract buyers – without breaking the bank.

De-Clutter – $0
The goal when prepping a home for sale is to thoroughly de-personalize and de-clutter every room in your home. You want prospective buyers to be able to imagine themselves living in the space – not you. Ensure that every surface is clear and that your non-decorative items are stowed out of sight, and you’ll help others see the space as their own.
Neutralize – $0
You might love to decorate with lavish, vivid color – but that does not mean others will. Replace linens and statement décor with more neutrally-toned, simple pieces. While people are likely to have a strong opinion about bright red or dark blue, beige and cream will probably elicit less extreme variations in opinion. When selling your home, you want people to react to the actual space, not the color of your bedspread.
Paint – $20 for a gallon
A room with a fresh coat of paint looks clean, fresh, and classy. Painting gives you the opportunity to neutralize rooms and erase unsightly marks and stains on your walls at once. This task takes effort, but the results can dramatically improve the way your home appears to buyers and therefore increase the perceived value of your property.
Soap and Water – $5
Once you’ve de-cluttered, neutralized your space, and repainted, take a walk through your home as though you are a buyer. Are the windows clean, or are they dirty and obscuring natural light? Is the grout in the bathroom moldy? Is there dust and dirt on the floors? Now is the time to thoroughly clean every nook and cranny of your home. The goal is to make your home look like a five-star hotel in photos and in person, and this wont be possible if it’s not spick and span. The best thing about this step? It costs virtually no money and will absolutely increase the perceived value of your home!

Of course, hiring Cooper & Associates Realty to list your home means that you will have the additional benefits of a professional stager, photographer, and a team of marketing professionals promoting your home in the best way possible. These main four steps, however, will increase your selling power tremendously – so what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!

Real Estate Investing for Beginners

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 17:25:35 GMT

New to investing? No problem! The following information will help you see how investing in Real Estate can enable you to receive the greatest return on the money you already have sitting idly in your accounts.

Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or just starting out, you innately know that the goal of any investment is to maximize your return. Many individuals choose savings accounts or even checking accounts to store their funds, where the average rate of return is 0-1% annually. At a 1% return rate, it would take 72 years to double your money. Considering the fact that the average life expectancy of US citizens is 78 years, it’s an understatement to say that this investment strategy is lacking – it’s abysmal. Want to learn how to double your money in a fraction of the time? Keep reading!

Why Real Estate:

Higher Return Rate

The average rate of return for real estate assets was reported by the National Council of Real Estate Investment Fiduciaries (NCREIF) to be 8.4% from 2000-2010. Thanks to the Rule of 72, you do not need to be a mathematician to see how this return rate will impact you financially. You can easily find out how long it will take for an investment to double your return by dividing the rate of return by 72.

So, 72 / 8.4 = 8.57 years to double your initial investment. Not bad!
Increased Stability & Control

It is no secret that every investment carries with it an element of risk. In addition to having a higher average rate of return, real estate investing offers increased stability and predictability compared to other high-yielding investment ventures. When you own property and rent it out, you are guaranteed a set amount of income from your tenant(s) every month. This enables you to plan your finances with increased accuracy and confidence. In addition, real estate is a tangible asset while stocks and other commonly held assets are not. You can closely control the value of your asset by how much work you put into improving the property – this is something investors have virtually no control over when purchasing stocks.

You Don’t Have to be Wealthy – Yet

Real estate investing is more accessible to people than many other forms. You can easily qualify for a loan if you do not have the money upfront to purchase a property, and then rent it out to pay the mortgage. Eventually you will be able to pay off the interest and the principal, and the property will generate a wonderful profit for you. The point is, you don’t already have to be wealthy to add this powerful asset to your portfolio. You just need the right counselling, guidance, and a willingness to learn.

Give me a call!

Call me at 916-960-4850 and we can discuss adding this valuable asset to your portfolio. With 14 years of experience, and over 1,000 homes sold, I have the expertise to help you make the right decision.

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Highlighting Sacramento: Land Park

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 17:22:32 GMT

Hello and welcome back to the Cooper & Associates Realty blog! As experienced Realtors with over a decade of experience in the industry, we have learned so much about what makes our area of the golden state an incredible, sought after place to plant your roots.

Starting now, expect to see weekly posts detailing the lovely, lesser known, and unique qualities that make each featured neighborhood special. We’re going to go ahead and get started featuring one of our more iconic neighborhoods: William Land Park.

Introduction: When traversing through the greenery present in Land Park, one is able to immediately understand why Sacramento is referred to as “The City of Trees”. The neighborhood consists of tree-lined streets filled with charming & unique tudor-style homes. The 166.5 acre namesake park that the neighborhood is famous for contains beautiful walking paths, ponds, and playgrounds.

Continue reading to learn more about the man we have to thank for this gorgeous park’s existence!

William Land – The Philanthropist Behind the Beauty

History: William Land was born on October 11th, 1836. With 14 siblings, Land did not enter into this world with many resources to fund his success. Forced into indentured servitude by his father, Land worked until he was able to end this arrangement and move west.

He arrived in San Francisco in 1860, and proceeded to walk to Sacramento to save travel costs. Once there, he worked to open the Western Hotel in 1875– the largest hotel in the west at the time. Land grew wealthy from his efforts, and was dedicated to using his resources to improve Sacramento — the town that he loved so much. Upon his death, Land donated $250,000.00 to the city to create a park, and gave $200,000.00 to the city’s poor. William Land Park – the glorious result of his philanthropic work – is still considered one of the most beloved, iconic community spaces the city has to offer. Thank you, William Land!

What to Check out: Within and surrounding Land Park’s acreage lies several fun and unique amenities that will keep you satisfied for many weekends to come! Look below to see a handful of our favorite spots.

Fairytale Town

3901 Land Park Dr, Sacramento, CA 95822

Nursery rhymes come to life at Sacramento’s famous Fairytale Town! This charming park contains life-size play structures themed around various classic children’s stories, including a giant shoe, block of cheese, and castle! Is your little one an animal lover?

Fairytale Town is home to some very friendly farm animals!

Funderland

William Land Park, 1350 17th Ave, Sacramento, CA 95822

Funderland, located adjacent to Fairytale town, is a small, charming amusement park complete with rides and fun activities for children. Unlike other parks, this one is centered around small children only. Opened in 1946, this old-school park is a blast from the past, and is a staple in the lives of children in the area.

The Sacramento Zoo

3930 W Land Park Dr, Sacramento, CA 95822

The Sacramento Zoo, located in the park across from Funderland, is a great place to take your loved ones. This zoo is home to many amazing creatures despite its smaller size. Come see flamingos, lions, leopards, giraffes, and don’t forget to peruse the reptile house!

Shakespeare in the Park

3901 Land Park Drive

Every summer, the Sacramento Shakespeare Festival is hosted at the outdoor stage in William Land Park. This is a great opportunity to support the arts while enjoying the beauty of the park during this time of year.

The William Land Park Golf Course

1701 Sutterville Rd, Sacramento, CA 95822

A large chunk of the park is actually a golf course! Enjoy playing while walking through the park’s rolling green landscape. What more could you ask for?

Vic’s Ice Cream/ Vic’s Cafe

3199 Riverside Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95818

Hungry? Vic’s Ice Cream is an iconic staple spot in Land Park. Enjoy a variety of ice cream flavors, sandwiches, and specialty drinks at one of Sacramento’s most beloved establishments. Vic’s recently opened a coffee shop next door with a great selection of high-quality coffee and entrees. Enjoy!

The Historic WPA Rock Garden

The WPA Rock Garden is a lovely place to stroll through on a sunny Spring day. This garden was built during the Depression as one of Roosevelt’s public works projects in 1940. Check out this lovely, historic spot the next time you’re looking for some quality outdoor time- you wont regret it.

That’s all for this week! Tune in next Thursday for another neighborhood profile. Take care, and remember to connect to us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, & Youtube!

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Sources:

William Land Park Information

Land Park Stats

WPA Rock Garden Information

Land Park Information

911 Emergency – Your Money is on Fire!

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 17:18:35 GMT

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but you might be burning your money and not even be aware! Keep reading to learn why.

For many, the thought of owing a home seems entirely out-of-reach, and renting seems more accessible and affordable. The truth, however, reveals that renting can cost you more money long-term than actually owning your own home!

3 Reasons to Buy Rather than Rent

1-Buying is cheaper

when you actually take into account average rents vs average monthly mortgage rates. Check out this website that will calculate the difference between costs for renting or buying for you personally! You will absolutely be surprised.

2- Buying a home means you have a forced savings account.

Owning your own home means your paying for something that will be yours at the end of your mortgage agreement. You can rent for the rest of your life, but you will never have access to the money you paid to your landlords. When you buy, your home is much more than a place to live — it is a source of equity that will benefit you and your family for years to come.

3-Appreciation

Your home will appreciate in value, and this means you will receive a return on your investment when you sell or rent it to others. Owning a home means you have the opportunity to earn passive income, which is always a good idea if you have an interest in ensuring your financial situation will support you into old age.

I hope you found these tips to be helpful, and that you will consider this information when making your next move. Feel free to contact me at 916-960-4850 to discuss the best option for you!

Top 3 Weight Loss Hacks

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 17:15:44 GMT

Since purchasing my FitBit a few months ago, I have lost 25 lbs. Whether or not you have one of these devices, you can use the following weight loss “hacks” to shed pounds and improve your overall health.

Load up on nutrient dense foods at the beginning of the day. The goal with weight loss is to feel full for as long as possible while consuming as few calories as possible . Protein and fiber heavy foods will do the trick while keeping you nourished. Try purchasing egg whites separately in their own carton. This way you can make a healthy, high-protein and low calorie omelet without the cholesterol-laden egg yolk.
Plan your exercise into your workday. It’s much easier to get to 10k steps if you gradually work at it throughout the day. Use your lunch to take a walk instead of sitting at your desk. Schedule stretch breaks into your day to keep your blood flowing.
Drink a half ounce to an ounce of water for every pound you weigh every day. You need to be properly hydrated to metabolize fat. In my weight loss journey, I’ve found that I’ve lose more weight the weeks I didn’t forget to drink an adequate amount of water. In addition to aiding in flushing fat away, being hydrated enables all of your bodily systems to operate at their optimal level.

Thank you for your time. I hope these 3 weight loss hacks will get you on track to improving your health like they did for me!

What to Expect when Selling your Home!

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 17:15:39 GMT

Is the Market Really on Fire?

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 17:11:54 GMT

Red Nose Day! – What's Behind the Red Nose

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 17:10:09 GMT

While those celebrating Red Nose Day look silly, the reason for the occasion is anything but. Nearly 25 years ago, Comic Relief Inc. created Red Nose Day to raise money for children in poverty. Since their inception, they have raised 1 billion dollars for children in all 50 states and 15 countries around the world. How can you participate? Spread the word, donate, and wear your red nose with pride.Countless celebrities and corporations donate their time and resources to make this day a success every year. Tune in to NBC tonight at 8/9c to watch the 2 hour comedy special featuring a star-studded comedic cast. Viewers will have the opportunity to donate while watching, and we encourage you to consider how even a relatively small donation can impact a child. Check out these statistics:

The National Center for Children in Poverty (NCCP) reports that over 16 million children living in the United States alone are living in poverty. UNICEF reports that a staggering 1 billion children live in poverty worldwide. This is an epidemic of immense proportions, and we all need to chip in to make a difference. Consider throwing a viewing party with friends and family tonight, and make sure you post about the event on social media with the hashtag #RedNoseDay! We all can play a part in lessening the tragic effects of global poverty — so let’s get started!

3 Incredible Tips to Improve your Financial Health

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 16:56:00 GMT

Build & Maintain Financial Stability with the Following Tips!

Hello and welcome back to Your Weekly Update, your source for information that impacts your health and your wallet. This week we are going to discuss some steps you can take to improve your financial hygiene. Developing healthy financial habits might seem daunting, so we broke it down for you into three steps:

Create a savings plan for emergencies. Aim to save at least $1,000. It’s ideal to save between 10-30% of each paycheck. The more you can tuck away, the better!
Create (and stick to) a budget! Look over your previous bank statements and identify how much you spend on what per month. Differentiate between necessary and unnecessary expenses and change your habits accordingly. Tip: Use apps/technology to help you stick to your budget! Check out “ Mint ”, the app that comprehensively monitors your money flow and creates categories based on your specific spending habits. The app automatically generates charts and graphs to enable you to visualize where exactly your money is going. It’s like FitBit for your wallet!
Build & maintain your credit . Building a strong credit history is useful in every aspect of your life. Whether you’re trying to purchase a house or reserve a rental car, having a positive credit history is incredibly beneficial. FICO considers 740-850 to be “excellent” credit.

Credit 101 – Keep Reading to Learn How to Elevate your Score!

Review your credit report once a year . It’s essential that you monitor your credit report to be able to quickly dispute inaccuracies should they occur. It is information that greatly impacts your life, so you need to be informed. You are entitled to a free copy of your credit report from Equifax, Experian, and Transunion every year. The only official way to request free reports is through visiting annualcreditreport.com or calling 1-877-322-8228. Beware of websites that falsely advertise free credit reports to lure you in. Many unethical sites prey on the unaware by charging you for what you could get for free, or by sneakily enrolling you in monthly subscriptions to their services.
Make your payments early or on time, every time. You want your credit report to show that you fulfill your financial obligations in a timely manner. Be proactive! Consider setting up automatic payments if you’re forgetful. Set reminders on your phone before the payment goes through to prevent an overdraft.
Aim to pay double or triple the minimum required. Paying more than the minimum will boost your credit and pay down your debt faster. Sticking with the minimum payment doesn’t help to lessen your credit utilization rate, another important factor that impacts your score.
Ensure that your credit utilization ratio (the percentage of your credit line being used) is as low as possible , in general and for individual accounts. You should ideally use under 30% of your credit to avoid harming your score.
DO NOT APPLY for multiple credit accounts within a short period of time. Each time you apply for any form of credit, the issuer will check your report to inform their decision. Each credit inquiry negatively impacts your score. Space out applications by at least six months to avoid this.
Starting out with zero credit? Open a secured credit card that reports to the 3 main credit bureaus to establish a positive history. A secured card requires a cash collateral deposit to open. Use it with great responsibility by following the above tips, and your score will increase.

I hope that this information sets you on the path to financial health. Feel free to leave your own tips below in the comments, I’d love to see what you have to say! Thank you so much for your time. Until next week!

SOURCES

http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0155-free-credit-reports

https://www.freecreditreport.com/blog/

Highlighting Elk Grove: Stonelake

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 16:52:40 GMT

Stonelake is a gorgeous neighborhood of 1,464 homes and 4,062 residents located in Elk Grove, CA. Here you’ll find top-notch schools, a state-of-the-art, feature-rich resident clubhouse, and beautiful homes — all surrounded by lush Northern California wetlands. There is so much to enjoy and discover. Keep reading to learn more about what makes this neighborhood so special!

The Stonelake Clubhouse

Ask any resident what their favorite part of living in Stonelake is, and the Clubhouse is sure to be at the top of their list! This community center features a pool, fitness facility, and lots of indoor and outdoor space to host memorable events. As a homeowner, you and your family have automatic access to the Club, which is open

Monday-Sunday 4:30am – 10:00 pm.

A Safe & Secure Community

The structure of Stonelake discourages outside traffic, and this creates a quiet, safe, and secure environment for homeowners. Resident Brent Petersen, who moved to Stonelake in 2009, raves about how the neighborhood’s exclusivity makes it easy to connect with the community:

“The fact that we are tucked-away from the general public means that when you go to the park or take a walk, the people you run into are your neighbors and fellow community-members. This makes it easy to build a real sense of community!”

The above shows just one way in which Stonelake’s neighborhood structure encourages the cultivation of its community. When asked about the best neighborhood feature, Brent made sure to highlight the supreme level of safety and security that Stonelake affords: “I love that my wife and children can take evening walks or runs and I don’t have to worry – the piece of mind one gains through living here is invaluable!”. Statistics confirm that Stonelake is as safe as Brent thinks – CrimeMapping.com reports 0 incidents in the neighborhood during the previous 6 months!

Great Schools

One of the most important features of any neighborhood is the quality of its school district. Luckily, Stonelake residents have the opportunity to send their children to the some of the most highly-ranked public schools in the county! Here are a few great options for your family:

Elliott Ranch Elementary School

Elliot Ranch Elementary is known for its safe, secure, and rigorous academic environment. GreatSchools.org, a highly regarded school-review site, rates schools on a scale of 1 to 10 based on parent feedback, test scores, student achievement, growth, and college readiness ( Click here for more details on the methodology used ). Elliott Ranch is rated a 9 out of 10, and has a 4-star average from parent reviews. Brent, who has two sons enrolled at Elliott Ranch, boasts that they are constantly engaged, nurtured, and challenged by school administrators who genuinely care.

Consumnes Oaks High School

Consumnes Oaks High School is rated a 9 out of 10 on GreatSchools.org, with a 97% graduate rate. While the UC/CSU eligibility for high school graduates is 42% statewide, this high school prepares 57% of graduates for UC/CSU matriculation, demonstrating why it is rated so highly ! Reviews mention the school’s anti-bullying policies, and the high level of personalized attention students receive from their teachers.

Conveniently Located

While Stonelake is like a lovely little oasis, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, its still remarkably easy for residents to get wherever they need to go with ease. The fact that I-5 is so easily accessible means residents can enjoy a serene living environment without compromising their ability to quickly commute to work!

Gorgeous Surroundings

Stonelake is close to the Sacramento River, and is surrounded by gorgeous California wetlands full of wildlife. Take a walk on the trail that surrounds the neighborhood and you will discover some majestic wildlife!

Website

Check out www.VisitStonelake.com for more information about Stonelake, including Stonelake News, information about current events, and an interactive community forum!

Get the Most out of your FitBit!

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 16:35:15 GMT

We’ve been talking a lot about improving your fiscal health so far in this series, but what about physical health? You and I both know that it’s important to take care of and manage both areas of your life for optimal living.

Use the online features and keep the site open as a tab on your web browser! – Many people don’t realize how many customized charts, graphs, and stats are aggregated to your online FitBit account. The app is limited in terms of features, so make sure you check out the desktop version for more detailed information!

Use the Silent alarm to remind you to eat on schedule! – The vibrating alarm is a great feature you can use not only to wake up in the morning, but also to remind you to eat your scheduled meals and snacks throughout the day. One of the main reasons people go off their diet plan is due to out-of-control hunger, so take some steps to prevent this! You can easily prevent the hunger monster from throwing you off your game by planning what you are going to eat and when you are going to eat it – and sticking to it!

Use the social features! – Add your friends and coworkers to your FitBit account. Need motivation to get your steps in? With the social features of the app, you can compete directly with your friends. FitBit does a great job of turning the “chore” of working out into a game, and the social features help enhance your experience while enabling others to hold you accountable on your fitness journey.

That’s all for this week! Thank you for watching, and don’t forget to subscribe to keep learning about news that impacts you, your wallet, and your health.

Don’t forget – Cooper & Associates Realty, The Best Move You’ll Ever Make

Health and Home: Safe Driving Tips from the Pros

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 16:33:31 GMT

Welcome to our series: Health and Home , where we highlight important topics that impact your health, safety, and personal life. Today we’re sharing some information that you can use to limit the risks you face while driving while improving your overall health!

Imagine this scenario: you wake up groggily to the loud, incessant ringing of your alarm, only to notice that the time you’re seeing on the clock is much later than the time you intended to wake up. You vaguely remember hitting the snooze button an additional few times, and the panic sets in. You speed up your morning routine, skipping the coffee and the workout you promised yourself you’d do. You hastily get dressed and hop in the car, tired and unfocused for the subsequent commute.

Your phone is ringing, and you can’t help but glance at the screen. There are several text messages and missed calls, and despite your better judgment, you decide to juggle the wheel and your phone. In this state, you are distracted and more concerned with speeding to work than being a careful and mindful driver. Sound familiar?

Whether or not the above scenario resonates with you (I see you, perfect people!) all drivers can benefit from periodically reminding themselves of ways to limit risks behind the wheel. Keep reading to learn some invaluable tips to keep you and your family safe!

What you Can do:

Behavioral Changes

1) Don’t Text | Don’t Take Calls Without a Headset

In the US, over 37,000 people die in road crashes annually (asirt.org), and it is estimated that one in five crashes occur due to distracted driving – something that is 100% preventable. If you must take a call, purchase a headset that enables you to interact with your phone hands-free.

2) Prioritize Getting Enough Sleep

I know, you’re probably tired of hearing that you need to work on attaining adequate sleep. See what I did there? Cheesy puns aside, driving while sleep deprived is similar to driving while intoxicated. Your reaction time is slower, and your judgment and awareness are negatively impacted. While there aren’t laws against drowsy driving, some states are trying to pass legislation that would charge tired drivers involved in accidents with criminal negligence (drowsydriving.org). Needless to say, getting enough sleep will have an all-around positive impact on your quality of life. Aim to get at least 7.5 hours a night, and adjust to allow for more or less as you see fit. The important thing is to remain mindful and strategic in your approach.

Try downloading a sleep tracking app to motivate you to reach your sleep goals. Check out “ To Bed ”, a free sleep app that enables you to create a sleep schedule based around your age, goals, and the time you need to wake up.

Professional Driving Tips

Professional drivers are well versed in the following safety rules during their training. Why not learn from the pros?

1) Aim High in Steering – The Imaginary Target

Set your gaze on an imaginary target far down the road. You are going to steer where your gaze rests, and you should always keep your focus far ahead of you to have ample time to make necessary adjustments.

2) Focus on the “Big Picture”

Continuously analyze your environment so you’re fully aware of the objects around you, their size, and depth. This will buy you additional time if you need to perform a quick maneuver.

3) Scan, don’t Stare

Don’t allow your eyes to rest in one spot. Check your rearview mirrors every 5-8 seconds. Scan steering wheels in other vehicles to detect signals or signs that something is wrong.

4) Ensure other Drivers/ Pedestrians See You

Make eye contact with other drivers and pedestrians. Use your horn and signal lights when necessary. Clear communication is a key component of safe driving.

5) Ensure Adequate Spacing between you and other Drivers

You need to expect the unexpected. Ensure that there is an adequate distance between you and the car in front of you to prevent disaster when there is an unexpected slow-down.

Choose a stable object on the road and the car ahead of you. Begin to count “one thousand one, one thousand two” and so on. If you can count to three before you catch up to the object, you are a safe distance from the car in front of you.

Remember, weather conditions will alter the amount of seconds there should be between you and the car in front of you. Four seconds is a good buffer for very wet conditions, and eight seconds worth of distance will keep you safe in the snow.

6) Pulling out from a Curb

Remember the three L’s

Left Signal
Left Mirror
Left Shoulder

Look over your left shoulder to check your blind spot before pulling away. Remember to keep an eye out for bicyclists and pedestrians, as they can suddenly appear where you’re not expecting them.

We hope that this information was helpful to you, and hope that you will use it to make changes that will keep yourself and others in the community safer. As always, thank you so much for reading. See you next week!

Sources:

Highlighting Elk Grove: Laguna West

Tue, 27 Sep 2016 16:29:00 GMT

If you’ve lived in Elk Grove long enough, you’ve likely heard of residents who live in and love the Laguna West Community. Why’s everyone so crazy about it? Here’s 8 Reasons why people love living in Laguna West:

It’s just a hop, skip, and a jump to I5. No matter where you live within the Laguna West Community, you can be on the freeway in 5 minutes.
Sunsets, we get some of the best sunsets in California (okay maybe, we’re biased). But because we’re so close to edge of the city, we get to look at sunsets unmarred by views of the rest of Elk Grove. And seriously, some of the best views of those sunsets are driving over the overpass on your way home.
Starbucks. You can get to one of the 3 Starbucks we’re triangulated between within 5 minutes. Caffeine is never out of reach.
Schools! Whether your kids go to Stonelake, Sims, Eddy, Toby, Laguna Creek, or Franklin they’re getting a great education.
Elk Grove’s Town Hall is nestled within our neighborhood. The CSD’s Hot Summer Nights Concert Series is a wonderful free community event held at the Town Hall, and you don’t have to fight anyone for parking, because it’s basically in your backyard.
Chances are, there’s a park just down the street from your house. Bartholomew, Johnson, Lawrence, Town Hall Park, no matter which way you turn you’ll end up with grass underneath your feet.
The lakes. You’re lying to yourself if you think you don’t enjoy an evening autumnal stroll by the lakes with your dog pulling desperately on the leash to go for a swim. Our community was built around the lakes and their gorgeous fountains, and they make Laguna West truly unique.
HOA’s often have a bad name. But Laguna West’s HOA has the neighborhood looking tip top. No junkers can be parked in streets or driveways and your neighbor’s home will never be aneurysm causing Electric Blue!

Cooper & Associates Realty | My Blogs

Granite vs. Quartz: Which Countertop Should You Get?

What is Granite?

What is Quartz?

4 Categories That Show The Difference Between Granite and Quartz

Bottom Line

How to Sell Your Home: A Guide For First-time Home Sellers (Part 2)

How to Sell Your Home: A Guide For First-time Home Sellers (Part 2)

Cooper & Associates Realty’s Guide to Home Selling (Part 2)

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How to Sell Your Home: A Guide For First-time Home Sellers (Part 1)

Cooper & Associates Realty’s Guide to Home Selling (Part I)

5 Things To Consider When Looking For Your Dream Home

How To Handle Multiple Offers As A Home Seller

What Does The Best Offer Look Like?

New How to Decide Between Offers

How To Get Multiple Offers For Your Home In 2021

5 Things Smart Home Sellers Do To Get Multiple Offers

Selling Your Home In a Seller's Market

What is a Seller’s Market?

What California Home Sellers Need To Know

Why People Are Relocating to Elk Grove

Why People Are Relocating to Elk Grove, CA

Great Location

Something for Everyone

The Best Move You’ll Ever Make

The Emotional Side of Selling your Home

Behind the Scenes of a Flip in Progress!

Homebuyer Basics!

Your Complete Spring Cleaning Action Plan

Now is the time to get your living space in order!

Get to Work!

Step 1 -Create a cleaning plan and schedule.

Step 2 – Focus on organizing one group of items at a time.

Step 3 – Sweep, Mop, Dust, & Vacuum

Final Step – Enjoy your Space!

River Cats Party Contest!

Samantha’s Trip to Key West!

Market Update – August 2016!

How to Keep Pets Safe in the Summer Heat!

Tips for Properly Caring for your Pets this Summer

Six Steps for a Successful Move

How to Get your Offer Accepted!

Why Hire a Real Estate Team?

How to Make Great Decisions

6 Homebuyer Protection Tips!

Buying a home is one of the largest purchases one can make in a lifetime. It is essential that every homebuyer take the necessary precautions to ensure they are protected in the process. The following steps are crucial, and show why representation from a licensed Realtor or Broker is key.

1 – Your Agent

As your agent, it is my responsibility to represent and protect you throughout the process of buying a home. Once you select a property, I will complete an AVID, or Agent Visual Inspection, where I will identify and address any flaws within the home and report them back to you.

2 – Home Inspection

Ordering a thorough home inspection is essential prior to purchasing a home. A qualified home inspector will check every nook and cranny of the house and report back to let you know if the home is safe and what, if any, repairs are necessary.

3 – Appraisal

Having an appraiser determine the value of the home is essential because it will ensure that you pay the fairest price possible. Appraisers will analyze the square footage of the home to determine if it’s correct, and will bring any discrepancies to your immediate attention.

4 – Title Insurance

Obtaining title insurance ensures that you are protected should there be any liens or title defects associated with the property in question. With this step, you can rest assured that you are the King or Queen of your new castle!

5 – Natural Hazard Disclosure

Now that the house has been inspected and properly insured, it is essential to check external factors that might negatively impact your home’s value, and that’s exactly what a Natural Hazard Disclosure will do for you!

6 – Home Warranty

Thank you for reading/ watching!

Of course, feel free to contact us at anytime should you decide it’s time for you to buy or sell your home! Give us a call at 916-960-4850 and we can guide you through the entire process with your needs and protection as our #1 priority.

What I've Learned in my Career

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Know your “one thing”

Multitasking is a Myth!

Lead by example

Pictures from "Exotics on Cannery Row"

Secret Sauce: How to Prepare your Home for the Market

Real Estate Investing for Beginners

Highlighting Sacramento: Land Park

William Land – The Philanthropist Behind the Beauty

Fairytale Town

Funderland

The Sacramento Zoo

Shakespeare in the Park

The William Land Park Golf Course

Vic’s Ice Cream/ Vic’s Cafe

The Historic WPA Rock Garden

911 Emergency – Your Money is on Fire!

3 Reasons to Buy Rather than Rent

1-Buying is cheaper