Child safety may not be something that you think about when preparing your home for sale if you don’t have babies, but it really does matter in the minds of most buyers. While they won’t expect your home to be outfitted with the latest in baby proofing technology, they will expect some general safety parameters to be followed.  Most safety measures require little effort or cost, but contribute greatly to a sense of well being in the minds of potential home buyers.  Since we live in earthquake country in San Mateo County and the bay area, the same tips for child safety apply to earthquake safety, as well.

The following questions may help your home to be the one considered (at least subconsciously) as a safe place for their future home.

• Are your floors clean and walkways clear?
• Are cleaning supplies and garage materials placed together in a secure or out of reach cabinet?
• Are your windows and doors lockable and do your interior and exterior doors shut securely?
• Can you replace any corded mini-blinds with alternative window coverings?
• Are there modifications needed to fireplace hearths, concrete, or brick work that will make your home safer?
• Can you remove or secure any electrical or cable cords and are your electrical outlets in good condition?
• Are there areas in your home that can to be fixed or tightened up inexpensively? Children have a way of loosening and removing anything that is not absolutely secure.
• Have your knickknacks and fragile items been removed or packed up so that they are not harmed if children attend the open house?
• Have you removed or secured all toiletries (ie. razors, medicines and toothpaste) in your bathrooms so they are not generally accessible?
• Should you purchase a throw rug to deter the possibility of someone slipping in any area of your home?
• Should you restrict shoes if you have hardwood floors?  It is a slip hazard if you require booties on people who refuse to remove shoes, so do you have enough liability insurance, just in case?
• If you have a pool or spa, do you have the required number of barriers or gates in place to protect children?
• Do you have heavy items secured to your walls?

As weird as this will sound, consider having someone crawl through your home on their knees, viewing it as a child might. If something looks enticing or potentially dangerous, eliminate it until your home is sold.  Considering these items will not only help sell your home, it will also help you to rest easy knowing your home and personal items are safe from harm when families view it during the selling process.

Showing properties 1 - 8 of 8. See more city of Foster City real estate.
(all data current as of 5/24/2012)

1. $899,000 : 1390 Ribbon St, Foster City
   
   3 beds, 2 full baths

   Home size: 1,860 sq ft

   Lot size: 6,175 sqft

   Year built: 1966
   
2. $949,000 : 261 Loon Ct, Foster City
   
   4 beds, 3 full baths

   Home size: 2,450 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,429 sqft

   Year built: 1966
   
3. $890,000 : 188 Flying Cloud Is, Foster City
   
   3 beds, 2 full baths

   Home size: 2,120 sq ft

   Lot size: 7,740 sqft

   Year built: 1966
   
4. $1,295,000 : 643 Matsonia Dr, Foster City
   
   4 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

   Home size: 2,430 sq ft

   Lot size: 6,612 sqft

   Year built: 1972
   
5. $809,000 : 786 Marlin Av, Foster City
   
   3 beds, 2 full baths

   Home size: 1,890 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,734 sqft

   Year built: 1967
   
6. $1,288,000 : 602 Bridgeport Ln, Foster City
   
   3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

   Home size: 1,940 sq ft

   Lot size: 4,560 sqft

   Year built: 1977
   
7. $700,000 : 716 Crane Av, Foster City
   
   4 beds, 2 full baths

   Home size: 1,760 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,700 sqft

   Year built: 1965
   
8. $1,089,000 : 760 Coronado Ln, Foster City
   
   3 beds, 2 full baths

   Home size: 2,110 sq ft

   Lot size: 4,857 sqft

   Year built: 1977
   

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

What does it mean to build “green”?  This term is being used more and more today and its meaning is really rather confusing to most of us.  Is it building with special materials by reusing recycled material such has lumber?  Not using certain kinds of glues in building or manufacturing?  What about inside the house such as your heating or cooling system?  Can you go green there?  How about changing your flooring, windows, walls?  All of these can be considered “green” according to CalRecycle.

You can embrace a “green” lifestyle and learn about the latest projections pretty easily. “Green” remodeling is a growing trend in the real estate industry.  In fact, McGraw-Hill Companies, revealed last month that 17% of residential home building in 2011 was due to eco-friendly homes and upgrades. Rates here on the West Coast, in North Midwest, and New England have experienced even stronger growth.

This number is anticipated to continue to rise to five times that rate in the next five years with over 30% of “green” home building being forecasted for 2016.  Beyond 2016, builders believe that over 90% of their projects will be “green.”  Home buyers are seeking earth-friendly features in homes for sale, so home sellers and remodelers should take note of these statistics. Renovation work has also increased in recent years, most likely due to the shifting economy, and builders report that home remodels make up over 60% of their business, according to the recent McGraw-Hill study done in conjunction with National Association of Home Builders and Waste Management.

So, home owners and those looking for new homes with eco-friendly perks, have the “green” light!  Almost half of all US builders (46%) have begun marketing their “green” services and are becoming well-versed in determining the best needs and options for their clients.  As builders become more familiar with the processes involved with earth-friendly materials, consumer cost has decreased as well, making it a great time to upgrade your home whether you’re going to be living in it for a while or put it up for sale. The benefits of making these eco-friendly measures are huge.  They can include reducing energy costs, reduced waste, improve your health and productivity and give you a better quality of life, and the big one in my opinion, feeling you’re giving back to society for the greater good of all of us.

To get more information on the results of the Green Home Builders and Remodelers Study, click here.  And for more information about CalRecyle, go here.

Have you driven past a house with a yard that looks like a dump and then wondered if the owner’s had any pride of ownership?   We’ve all seen those houses.  When you’re getting ready to sell your home it’s very important to look at your yard closely because it may be time to consider hiring a gardener, or getting help from family and friends, to make some needed changes as soon as possible so your house looks picture perfect. The right gardener can transform the most jungle-like backyard into a beautifully manicured area of peace and tranquility, in as little as a day!  With all the other tasks associated with selling your home, landscaping is a great project to outsource.

Before hiring a gardener, ask friends or neighbors for referrals. And don’t forget, you can always ask us or your own Realtor for a referral to a good gardener, too.  Once you have a few recommendations, make a list of what you need done and ask questions and raise any concerns you may have with the gardeners/landscapers you decide to interview.

Some key points to discuss are how often you would like service and what you need included at each visit. Services range from simple mowing to complete care, with reseeding, new sod, watering and fertilizing options. Don’t be afraid to ask your new gardener for help with ideas and improvements that could increase your property value and alert your gardener as to the property status, since there may be times when you may want extra service (such as before an open house).

Keep in mind that a specialty garden is not the same as basic maintenance. If you have special circumstances, you may want to write down your needs along with any verbal instructions for your final choice of landscaper or gardener. Don’t forget that maintenance costs, liability insurance and worker’s compensation coverage are all topics you will want to discuss before entering into any final agreement.

Once you have begun your service, inspect the initial work and take time to notice the changes occurring in your landscaping. As you offer feedback to your gardener and become a part of the process, you will see your home evolve into a well-kept, beautifully groomed masterpiece. Your home will create the best impression possible and deliver the message you want to share with potential home buyers.

This may be costly but you will find this will be repaid with a higher sale price in the end allowing you to recoup your out of pocket costs. Your ROI will a good one.   Above all else, don’t forget to keep good records of everything thing you do to prepare your home for market as this can be part of your adjusted basis when you finally sell your very last house.

Here are some San Mateo homes for sale today.

Showing properties 1 - 28 of 28. See more city of San Mateo real estate.
(all data current as of 5/24/2012)

1. $678,000 : 2915 Fernwood St, San Mateo
   
   2 beds, 1 full bath

   Home size: 1,060 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,040 sqft

   Year built: 1951
   
2. $650,000 : 1707 Eleanor Dr, San Mateo
   
   3 beds, 2 full baths

   Home size: 1,400 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,000 sqft

   Year built: 1955
   
3. $699,000 : 251 N Claremont St, San Mateo
   
   2 beds, 3 full baths

   Home size: 1,070 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,175 sqft

   Year built: 1937
   
4. $988,000 : 3421 Kettering Ct, San Mateo
   
   3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

   Home size: 2,450 sq ft

   Lot size: 14,500 sqft

   Year built: 1959
   
5. $895,000 : 3129 Monterey St, San Mateo
   
   3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

   Home size: 1,500 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,225 sqft

   Year built: 1951
   
6. $998,000 : 601 Maple St, San Mateo
   
   3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

   Home size: 1,570 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,432 sqft

   Year built: 1948
   
7. $890,000 : 337 Greenfield Av, San Mateo
   
   3 beds, 3 full baths

   Home size: 2,540 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,200 sqft

   Year built: 1951
   
8. $725,000 : 1009 Sunnybrae Bl, San Mateo
   
   3 beds, 2 full baths

   Home size: 1,640 sq ft

   Lot size: 7,050 sqft

   Year built: 1946
   
9. $749,000 : 409 E Bellevue Av, San Mateo
   
   3 beds, 4 full baths

   Home size: 1,900 sq ft

   Lot size: 7,500 sqft

   Year built: 1920
   
10. $822,800 : 1152 Wayne Wy, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 1,690 sq ft

    Lot size: 2,564 sqft

    Year built: 2000
    
11. $699,000 : 952 E Grant Pl, San Mateo
    
    5 beds, 2 full baths

    Home size: 1,730 sq ft

    Lot size: 4,750 sqft

    Year built: 1939
    
12. $799,000 : 3528 Broadview Ct, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 1,780 sq ft

    Lot size: 2,958 sqft

    Year built: 1986
    
13. $998,000 : 640 42nd Av, San Mateo
    
    4 beds, 3 full baths

    Home size: 3,150 sq ft

    Lot size: 11,000 sqft

    Year built: 1962
    
14. $949,800 : 267 36th Av, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 2,020 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,000 sqft

    Year built: 1948
    
15. $659,000 : 2253 Portsmouth Wy, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 2 full baths

    Home size: 1,330 sq ft

    Lot size: 4,992 sqft

    Year built: 1956
    
16. $650,000 : 221 28th Av, San Mateo
    
    2 beds, 2 full baths

    Home size: 1,810 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,880 sqft

    Year built: 1939
    
17. $670,000 : 2221 Portsmouth Wy, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 2 full baths

    Home size: 1,530 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,000 sqft

    Year built: 1956
    
18. $875,000 : 1765 Lake St, San Mateo
    
    4 beds, 3 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 1,960 sq ft

    Lot size: 8,280 sqft

    Year built: 1960
    
19. $948,888 : 640 Fathom Dr, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 1,860 sq ft

    Lot size: 2,522 sqft

    Year built: 1967
    
20. $1,000,000 : 25 N Railroad Av, San Mateo
    
    6 beds, 5 full baths

    Home size: 2,200 sq ft

    Lot size: 9,800 sqft

    Year built: 1890
    
21. $848,000 : 626 Pico Av, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 2 full baths

    Home size: 1,399 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,000 sqft

    Year built: 1949
    
22. $849,900 : 445 W 23rd Av, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 2 full baths

    Home size: 1,560 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,500 sqft

    Year built: 1951
    
23. $939,000 : 461 W 25th Av, San Mateo
    
    4 beds, 3 full baths

    Home size: 1,720 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,000 sqft

    Year built: 1956
    
24. $799,000 : 3985 Oneill Dr, San Mateo
    
    5 beds, 3 full baths

    Home size: 2,320 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,000 sqft

    Year built: 1950
    
25. $740,999 : 1665 Wellesley Av, San Mateo
    
    4 beds, 3 full baths

    Home size: 2,270 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,750 sqft

    Year built: 1955
    
26. $669,950 : 320 Monte Diablo Av, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 2 full baths

    Home size: 1,180 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,520 sqft

    Year built: 1910
    
27. $749,000 : 514 E 16th Av, San Mateo
    
    4 beds, 2 full baths

    Home size: 1,180 sq ft

    Lot size: 4,750 sqft

    Year built: 1946
    
28. $750,000 : 3734 Hacienda St, San Mateo
    
    2 beds, 2 full baths

    Home size: 2,000 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,830 sqft

    Year built: 1951
    

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Next comes the inside of your home.

If you’ve lived in your home for a few years then it will need to be painted. If  you’ve used dark decorator colors, I advise you to paint them out with a more neutral color pallet.  Trim should be done in white and either paint all rooms a soft tones or warm tones.  Better Homes & Gardens has these examples to share with you.

Warm color pallet

Cool color pallet

How’s your kitchen?  Are your cabinets in need of a pick up?  Is the wood in good shape?  If the wood is good, but the handles aren’t, replace them.  If the wood needs work, paint the cabinets and put new handles in place.  New handles can do an amazing job of refreshing a kitchen and bathroom, too.  How about your appliances?  Do they match?  You can go to appliance stores and buy a package of new appliances for around $2000.  This includes a stove, dishwasher, microwave/vent, and refrigerator.  Buyers expect appliances will be left so give them new ones.  You’ll get your money back, believe me.

Now comes staging.  This can be done with a professional Stager, with your Agent’s help, or on your own if you’re a clever decorator.  Honestly, I suggest you hire the stager.  They can bring their expertise and rearrange your own furnishing for a modest amount of money, sometimes as low as $400.  If you need help because your furniture won’t work, furnishing a house or several rooms is the best way to go.  Costs can be everywhere on this but figure about $2500 for the first month and then additional costs after that.  But, Stager prices do vary according to what they do and where you are so talk to several before settling on the one you want.

Curb Appeal.

Finally, if you have a house, how the exterior of your house looks is critical.  Do you need to repaint?  If you don’t need to paint the entire exterior do paint your trim and front door.  Just doing those two things will give your home a huge pick-me-up.  The front door is the most important door in your house so make it bright and inviting.  Hang a wreath at the door, have potted plants in front and it says “Welcome!”.

Your yard and how it looks is as important as how the inside looks.  A Stager can often make suggestions on perk up the yard.  If you have grass, water it, feed it and mow it.  Plant fresh flowers around the yard, put mulch in open areas where you don’t have plants to give a finished look.   If you have fruit trees, keep the ripe fruit picked up off the ground.  Don’t forget to look at the condition of any fencing you may have, too .  Is is in need of repair?  Now’s the time to fix it.

How much should I expect to spend before my house is listed?

It’s really difficult to give an accurate amount on costs since the size of the home, and the amount of work needed dictates cost.  If you’re in a condo or townhouse, generally it’s interior work that gets done and that’s means paint, refinishing of floors, cleaning carpets, etc needs to be done.  Costs can run from $3000 to the sky’s the limit.  Whether you use professional painters or you’re a DIY person, costs vary.  Are you refinishing floors?  Get a professional to do them.  Paint?  DIY if you’re able.

Own a house?  Exterior painting and/or interior painting can run up to $15,000.  Landscaping, if it’s only cleaning up and planting new plants will cost a relatively a small amount.

Just remember, curb appeal is important and your home only gets one first impression.  I’ve pulled up to a house and had clients tell me they will not go in because they don’t like how it looks.  You don’t want that to happen in today’s market.  If your home presents well, you will get your price,or very close to it.

The Final word.

Expect to spend between$1000 and $25,000, on average.  This includes inspections and needed primping to make your home beautiful.

Here’s what’s for sale in San Mateo.

Showing properties 1 - 35 of 66. See more city of San Mateo real estate.
(all data current as of 5/24/2012)

1. $469,000 : 224 Lindbergh St, San Mateo
   
   3 beds, 1 full bath

   Home size: 1,110 sq ft

   Lot size: 4,400 sqft
   
2. $529,900 : 1759 Cottage Grove Av, San Mateo
   
   3 beds, 1 full bath

   Home size: 1,000 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,250 sqft
   
3. $2,195,000 : 525 Fairfax Av, San Mateo
   
   4 beds, 4 full, 1 part baths

   Home size: 3,500 sq ft

   Lot size: 7,680 sqft
   
4. $519,000 : 215 N Kingston St, San Mateo
   
   2 beds, 1 full bath

   Home size: 1,380 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,000 sqft
   
5. $678,000 : 2915 Fernwood St, San Mateo
   
   2 beds, 1 full bath

   Home size: 1,060 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,040 sqft
   
6. $650,000 : 1707 Eleanor Dr, San Mateo
   
   3 beds, 2 full baths

   Home size: 1,400 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,000 sqft
   
7. $499,900 : 1644 S Norfolk St, San Mateo
   
   3 beds, 2 full baths

   Home size: 1,410 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,814 sqft
   
8. $406,000 : 1016 Norton St, San Mateo
   
   3 beds, 2 full baths

   Home size: 1,110 sq ft

   Lot size: 7,500 sqft
   
9. $499,000 : 3821 Edison St, San Mateo
   
   2 beds, 1 full bath

   Home size: 1,040 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,490 sqft
   
10. $639,000 : 3659 San Benito St, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 1 full bath

    Home size: 1,440 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,000 sqft
    
11. $699,000 : 251 N Claremont St, San Mateo
    
    2 beds, 3 full baths

    Home size: 1,070 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,175 sqft
    
12. $1,200,000 : 816 Crescent Av, San Mateo
    
    4 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 2,540 sq ft

    Lot size: 8,500 sqft
    
13. $1,328,800 : 838 Overlook Ct, San Mateo
    
    4 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 2,270 sq ft

    Lot size: 13,200 sqft
    
14. $988,000 : 3421 Kettering Ct, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 2,450 sq ft

    Lot size: 14,500 sqft
    
15. $479,000 : 1539 Lorraine Av, San Mateo
    
    2 beds, 1 full bath

    Home size: 930 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,250 sqft
    
16. $895,000 : 3129 Monterey St, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 1,500 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,225 sqft
    
17. $998,000 : 601 Maple St, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 1,570 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,432 sqft
    
18. $890,000 : 337 Greenfield Av, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 3 full baths

    Home size: 2,540 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,200 sqft
    
19. $1,099,000 : 212 Woodbridge Ci, San Mateo
    
    4 beds, 3 full baths

    Home size: 2,660 sq ft

    Lot size: 6,893 sqft
    
20. $2,348,000 : 262 Virginia Av, San Mateo
    
    4 beds, 3 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 2,800 sq ft

    Lot size: 11,760 sqft
    
21. $1,487,000 : 613 Oregon Av, San Mateo
    
    4 beds, 3 full baths

    Home size: 2,540 sq ft

    Lot size: 6,000 sqft
    
22. $348,000 : 228 N Humboldt St, San Mateo
    
    2 beds, 1 full bath

    Home size: 970 sq ft

    Lot size: 4,000 sqft
    
23. $725,000 : 1009 Sunnybrae Bl, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 2 full baths

    Home size: 1,640 sq ft

    Lot size: 7,050 sqft
    
24. $749,000 : 409 E Bellevue Av, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 4 full baths

    Home size: 1,900 sq ft

    Lot size: 7,500 sqft
    
25. $822,800 : 1152 Wayne Wy, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 1,690 sq ft

    Lot size: 2,564 sqft
    
26. $1,239,000 : 3740 Hacienda St, San Mateo
    
    5 beds, 5 full baths

    Home size: 3,140 sq ft

    Lot size: 7,344 sqft
    
27. $499,000 : 405 Cavanaugh St, San Mateo
    
    2 beds, 1 full bath

    Home size: 910 sq ft

    Lot size: 4,900 sqft
    
28. $475,000 : 132 Ottawa St, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 1 full bath

    Home size: 1,140 sq ft

    Lot size: 4,750 sqft
    
29. $699,000 : 952 E Grant Pl, San Mateo
    
    5 beds, 2 full baths

    Home size: 1,730 sq ft

    Lot size: 4,750 sqft
    
30. $799,000 : 3528 Broadview Ct, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 1,780 sq ft

    Lot size: 2,958 sqft
    
31. $998,000 : 640 42nd Av, San Mateo
    
    4 beds, 3 full baths

    Home size: 3,150 sq ft

    Lot size: 11,000 sqft
    
32. $549,000 : 2352 Elliott St, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 2 full baths

    Home size: 1,470 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,800 sqft
    
33. $2,150,000 : 420 Dorchester Rd, San Mateo
    
    4 beds, 5 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 3,890 sq ft

    Lot size: 10,354 sqft
    
34. $1,298,888 : 306 41st Av, San Mateo
    
    5 beds, 3 full baths

    Home size: 2,980 sq ft

    Lot size: 11,088 sqft
    
35. $1,485,000 : 228 Castilian Wy, San Mateo
    
    3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 1,930 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,885 sqft
    

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Congratulations!  You’ve listed your house.   Now what else should you know, that you don’t?

In our area it is customary for the seller to take care of certain things prior to the property hitting the market.  These things include the property inspection and the pest inspection. If either of these inspections bring up any major issues the seller will generally take care of them .   Sometimes the inspections suggest additional inspections by other professionals are needed.  Having those inspections done is a good idea even if you don’t choose to make the repairs. These additional inspections might include a roof inspection, chimney inspection, or foundation inspection which is common in parts of Foster City.

You need to budget for those costs and what they cost depends on the size of your home.  Generally figure between $300 and $2000 for the property inspection and $150 to $600 for the pest inspection.  If you can pay at the time of service, you’ll receive a discount but you can pay through your escrow at the closing of the sale of your home.

If you live in a condo you won’t need a pest inspection as your Home Owner’s Association is responsible for pests.  If you live in a townhouse, it will depend on whether you live in a townhouse-style condominium or a PUD (Planned Unit Development) when you own the land under your unit.

Today’s buyers expect a house to be in almost perfect condition.

If it is in picture perfect condition buyers are willing to pay top dollar for it.  If it isn’t, be prepared to negotiate with a buyer who’s going to offer much lower than you hoped to see.  If you don’t want to make any repairs to the home you can have an As-Is listing which is very common in trust sales.  If you have done your inspections and the found all known issues it’s a little easier to get away with an As-Is listing today. Do then expect to price lower than the market.   If you wonder why, reread the first sentence of this paragraph.

You must disclose everything about your home.

One of the biggest reasons we recommend to a seller to have all inspections done before we list the home on the MLS is to help you fill out all of the required paperwork you have.  There are forms that have multiple pages of check boxes asking questions about your home, your neighborhood, and anything else you might know.  You must answer everything completely. One can never over disclose about their property.  The law is clear about that so don’t withhold information about your neighbor’s murder, or loud dog, or noisy buses.  If someone died in your home within the past 3 years you must disclose this.

The Disclosure Package that your Agent gives you is for your benefit as well as your buyer’s.  A buyer can come after a seller who has willfully not disclosed information about their home once it’s discovered. There is no statue of limitations here.  Be honest.  Take you time.  Be complete.

If you’re beginning to worry about all of these costs remember one thing, there’s an ROI in taking care of everything before your home hits the MLS.  You will get a higher price which should cover your expenses.  Friday I’ll talk about what other expenses you need to be prepared for when you list your home.

Here’s what’s for sale in Foster City.

Showing properties 1 - 8 of 8. See more city of Foster City real estate.
(all data current as of 5/24/2012)

1. $899,000 : 1390 Ribbon St, Foster City
   
   3 beds, 2 full baths

   Home size: 1,860 sq ft

   Lot size: 6,175 sqft
   
2. $949,000 : 261 Loon Ct, Foster City
   
   4 beds, 3 full baths

   Home size: 2,450 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,429 sqft
   
3. $890,000 : 188 Flying Cloud Is, Foster City
   
   3 beds, 2 full baths

   Home size: 2,120 sq ft

   Lot size: 7,740 sqft
   
4. $1,295,000 : 643 Matsonia Dr, Foster City
   
   4 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

   Home size: 2,430 sq ft

   Lot size: 6,612 sqft
   
5. $809,000 : 786 Marlin Av, Foster City
   
   3 beds, 2 full baths

   Home size: 1,890 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,734 sqft
   
6. $1,288,000 : 602 Bridgeport Ln, Foster City
   
   3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

   Home size: 1,940 sq ft

   Lot size: 4,560 sqft
   
7. $700,000 : 716 Crane Av, Foster City
   
   4 beds, 2 full baths

   Home size: 1,760 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,700 sqft
   
8. $1,089,000 : 760 Coronado Ln, Foster City
   
   3 beds, 2 full baths

   Home size: 2,110 sq ft

   Lot size: 4,857 sqft
   

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Congratulations on the purchase of your new home! Now, for the next challenge: moving. I’ve talked about how to go through all of your “stuff” and pare things down over the years so do a search for my tips. Hold that last Garage Sale for your final clearance and sell, sell, sell everything.

Next comes your move. Are you packing yourself or are the professionals doing it for you? If you’re doing it yourself, the following is a list of materials you’ll need. Moving companies and overnight mail businesses can furnish these, as well as specialized items including wardrobe boxes for clothing and heavy-duty boxes for china and other breakables. Liquor and computer stores also are good sources for sturdy boxes. Craigslist is a great resource for moving boxes, too.

Start collecting the following materials:

• Boxes of all sizes
• Plastic bags
• Non-shredded newspapers
• Packing tape
• Markers
• Bubble wrap
• Tissues paper
• Industrial Shrink Wrap

A few guidelines on How to Pack:

• Cushion the bottom and sides of boxes first
• Packed items should not exceed 30 pounds
• When packing, go room by room it will make unpacking easier
• Begin your packing as early in the
  moving process as you can it will take longer than you think at a time
  when you’ll be busy with many other concerns
• Label all boxes by item and where in your new home they should be placed
• Pack heavy items in smaller boxes and lighter items in larger boxes
• Thoroughly wrap your breakables in
  newsprint paper, paper towels or clothing, placing them in dresser
  drawers, containers with lids, large cans, etc.
• Fill your refrigerator and washer and dryer with clothes, linens and other light objects
• Tape cords underneath all electrical appliances
• Don’t tape furniture, doors and
  drawers, as tape can cause damage; instead, use rope, elastic or long
  strips of fabric to secure furniture
• If you have children, let them feel they are a part of the process by helping them pack their toys

Finally, it’s moving day…

Fill one box with moving-day essentials like paper plates, a coffee maker and coffee, hand tools and extension cords, a bucket, rags, soaps and paper towels. You may also want to set aside a few days’ worth of clothing, food and other essentials you’ll need prior to arriving at your new home and prior to unpacking. Make sure there is a big, bright label telling the movers to Load Last and Unload First on it. Hopefully they will. Off will come all of your essentials for easy access in your new home.

Here’s what’s for sale in Burlingame right now:

Showing properties 1 - 30 of 36. See more city of Burlingame real estate.
(all data current as of 5/24/2012)

1. $2,150,000 : 135 Valdeflores Dr, Burlingame
   
   4 beds, 3 full, 2 part baths

   Home size: 3,550 sq ft

   Lot size: 9,976 sqft
   
2. $2,195,000 : 1005 Drake Av, Burlingame
   
   5 beds, 4 full, 1 part baths

   Home size: 3,168 sq ft

   Lot size: 6,250 sqft
   
3. $1,349,000 : 516 Burlingame Av, Burlingame
   
   3 beds, 2 full baths

   Home size: 2,110 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,000 sqft
   
4. $980,000 : 1016 Paloma Av, Burlingame
   
   3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

   Home size: 1,310 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,750 sqft
   
5. $2,695,000 : 2202 Summit Dr, Burlingame
   
   3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

   Home size: 2,341 sq ft

   Lot size: 2.66 ac
   
6. $1,717,000 : 1513 Sanchez Av, Burlingame
   
   4 beds, 3 full, 1 part baths

   Home size: 2,390 sq ft

   Lot size: 7,050 sqft
   
7. $1,050,000 : 1000 Park Av, Burlingame
   
   3 beds, 2 full baths

   Home size: 1,684 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,400 sqft
   
8. $2,249,000 : 1537 Drake Av, Burlingame
   
   4 beds, 4 full, 1 part baths

   Home size: 2,940 sq ft

   Lot size: 6,000 sqft
   
9. $1,749,000 : 2504 Easton Dr, Burlingame
   
   4 beds, 3 full baths

   Home size: 2,500 sq ft

   Lot size: 6,000 sqft
   
10. $899,000 : 1112 Palm Dr, Burlingame
    
    3 beds, 2 full baths

    Home size: 1,360 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,928 sqft
    
11. $1,428,000 : 23 Dwight Rd, Burlingame
    
    4 beds, 2 full baths

    Home size: 2,200 sq ft

    Lot size: 4,960 sqft
    
12. $987,000 : 411 Bayswater Av, Burlingame
    
    3 beds, 2 full baths

    Home size: 1,585 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,060 sqft
    
13. $739,000 : 737 Crossway Rd, Burlingame
    
    2 beds, 1 full bath

    Home size: 810 sq ft

    Lot size: 3,000 sqft
    
14. $2,195,000 : 1257 Balboa Av, Burlingame
    
    4 beds, 4 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 2,715 sq ft

    Lot size: 6,000 sqft
    
15. $985,000 : 107 W Fey Dr, Burlingame
    
    4 beds, 3 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 2,330 sq ft

    Lot size: 17,767 sqft
    
16. $2,298,000 : 1037 Balboa Av, Burlingame
    
    4 beds, 3 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 3,000 sq ft

    Lot size: 6,000 sqft
    
17. $2,795,000 : 1526 Los Altos Dr, Burlingame
    
    5 beds, 5 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 4,000 sq ft

    Lot size: 8,320 sqft
    
18. $1,280,000 : 205 Howard Av, Burlingame
    
    3 beds, 2 full baths

    Home size: 1,520 sq ft

    Lot size: 4,738 sqft
    
19. $2,950,000 : 3004 Hillside Dr, Burlingame
    
    5 beds, 4 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 4,500 sq ft

    Lot size: 11,250 sqft
    
20. $1,200,000 : 1435 Edgehill Dr, Burlingame
    
    5 beds, 3 full baths

    Home size: 1,780 sq ft

    Lot size: 6,016 sqft
    
21. $1,900,000 : 1445 Cabrillo Av, Burlingame
    
    4 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 2,480 sq ft

    Lot size: 6,000 sqft
    
22. $1,100,000 : 1512 Ralston Av, Burlingame
    
    3 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 1,990 sq ft

    Lot size: 7,896 sqft
    
23. $1,149,000 : 23 El Quanito Wy, Burlingame
    
    3 beds, 2 full baths

    Home size: 1,620 sq ft

    Lot size: 13,250 sqft
    
24. $2,395,000 : 1360 Columbus Av, Burlingame
    
    5 beds, 4 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 2,975 sq ft

    Lot size: 6,000 sqft
    
25. $900,000 : 22 Bancroft Rd, Burlingame
    
    2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 1,570 sq ft

    Lot size: 6,000 sqft
    
26. $2,295,000 : 1032 Balboa Av, Burlingame
    
    5 beds, 4 full, 1 part baths

    Home size: 3,000 sq ft

    Lot size: 6,000 sqft
    
27. $1,595,000 : 1513 Ralston Av, Burlingame
    
    4 beds, 3 full baths

    Home size: 3,100 sq ft

    Lot size: 8,064 sqft
    
28. $1,350,000 : 1437 Balboa Av, Burlingame
    
    2 beds, 1 full bath

    Home size: 1,370 sq ft

    Lot size: 6,000 sqft
    
29. $1,295,000 : 1318 Edgehill Dr, Burlingame
    
    4 beds, 3 full baths

    Home size: 2,050 sq ft

    Lot size: 7,200 sqft
    
30. $749,000 : 812 Howard Av, Burlingame
    
    2 beds, 1 full bath

    Home size: 1,010 sq ft

    Lot size: 5,250 sqft
    

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

There are exactly 65 days left to qualify for the $8000 First Time Buyer’s Credit.  You must be in contract by April 30,2010 and close escrow by June 30th.  You can buy a home up to $800,000 and have an income as high as $225,000 for a couple or $125,000 for a single person.  We have homes to show you, so why aren’t you looking?  Seriously.  This price range is hot, hot, hot and we are seeing multiple offers once again, which means you must be out looking every weekend and writing offers.

Uncle Sam has even gifted move-up buyers.  If you purchased your first home five or more years ago, you too, can qualify for a tax credit of $6500 or 10% of the purchase price of the new home.  If you own a condo this is your opportunity for FREE MONEY by moving into a larger home.  What are you waiting for?  We have people who want to buy your condo and you can go out looking for a house.

The clock is ticking every minute of every hour of every day.  Uncle Sam is giving away cash.  This is money you can use to furnish your new home, or off-set your current tax bill if you want to file an amended return for 2009.  We have forms for this, so ask us and we can email them off to you.

There is a catch on this credit, as you would expect.  You’ll need to remain in this house for 36 months before selling or you’ll have to pay the credit back.  That’s fair.  If you file for one of these credits, be prepared for a possible IRS audit to verify that you qualified for the credit.  This is part of new anti-fraud rules and the IRS has already identified over 100,000 returns with potentially fraudulent home buyer credits from last year alone.  You will need to attach a properly executed real estate settlement sheet to your tax return to show proof to the IRS.  Your Realtor and Lender can help you with this.

Tick-Tock.  Tick-Tock. Tick-Tock.  The Wilkas Group is here to help you but you need to move on it.  Your lost time can not be replaced.  There are only 65 days, 1560 hours, 93,600 minutes left to do this.

If you are one of the multitude of homeowners sitting with this kind of mortgage you have a couple of choices.  First, refinance it immediately.  Second, if you are unable to do so, get your home ready for resale and get it on the market this spring.  Yes, it will be under water, and yes you will need to go through the process of applying for a loan modification with your lender.  If you are denied, as most appear to be, ask for a short sale and find a Realtor with suitable experience and training to help you.  We are CDPE trained and SFR trained.  These are the Cadillac of certifications for short sales.  Do not wait to sell, get ready to do it this spring because there will be much competition for short sales.

Another consideration for you.  If you sell you home in a short sale, you can buy a new one within 90 days using a conforming FHA loan.  This means you will be in a home around $900,000 and there are many to select from in our area.  You may have to swallow your pride in reducing your home size and location but at least you can still own a home without the tax ramifications of a foreclosure.

Do you want more information on how to do this?  We’re here to answer your questions so go here for more help.

]]> http://wilkasgroup.com/its-crystal-ball-time-whats-the-market-doing-in-the-san-mateo-ca-area/feed/ 0 http://wilkasgroup.com/year-end-look-at-foster-city-ca-market/ http://wilkasgroup.com/year-end-look-at-foster-city-ca-market/#comments Sat, 02 Jan 2010 09:56:55 +0000 lenorewilkas http://wilkasgroup.com/?p=2278 Foster City, like San Mateo, offers a good selection of single family houses for sale as well as condos and townhouses.  I’ll start with the single family houses to show you what the market has been like. Over all Foster City is the healthiest market in our area.  Prices are up and we’re seeing that there were 2 months where prices exceeded the list price.  This is something we haven’t seen in several years.  Foster City sits in a perfect location for commutes to bio-tech or hi-tech, east bay or the City.  Schools are tops, there are loads and loads of parks for families to utilize and they do, too.  It’s a planned community with apartments, condos, townhouses and single family houses.  The waterways snake through the city and boating is a big pass time.

Like our other communities last year didn’t see a lot of sales, even after the banks opened up their lending and gave out loans rather than moths, but prices have been pretty good.  There haven’t been a lot of short sales or REO’s, yet.  We know there will be some, but not sure how many.  Foster City is one of the few places one can buy entry level, and move up within the community.  If you are thinking about buying a short sale or REO in order to get to Foster City from somewhere else, you need experienced agents working these tricky deals.  The Wilkas Group is experienced and trained in the nuances of short sales and bank owned sales.  Whether you are buying or selling we know how to help you achieve your real estate needs.

Looking at the numbers you can see the Median price of the houses for sale is still higher than the median sold price.  Seller’s are just not ready to accept that prices have dropped so we are seeing listings with prices higher then we’d expect, but this is Burlingame and people want to live in Burlingame for it’s schools, location and charm.  We expect to see short sales and REO’s to come in 2010 in Burlingame and if you’re hoping to buy or need to sell because of this, then you need an agent who is experienced in this kind of sale.  The Wilkas Group is trained and has had experience with both short sales and bank owned sales.  Do not use an agent who will learn on your transaction.  There are too many issues that come up during the escrow to allow a person learning the system.  Use an expert like the Wilkas Group.