Why to Buy NOW in Silicon Valley!

Summer is the busiest time of year for real estate purchases and sales in Silicon Valley. If you are thinking about buying a new home but still haven’t dipped into the Santa Clara Real Estate market, I understand that it may stem from uncertain times in the industry right now. You don’t know if prices will continue to drop, and you don’t know if the market will ever improve.

Let’s take these concerns one at a time. First off, if you want to hold off on purchasing a home because you’re hoping that the prices will continue to fall, and you’ll score a better deal further down the road, I’m here as your Silicon Valley Real Estate agent to tell you the smart thing to do is buy now. As a buyer, you are living in a time with mortgage rates at an unprecedented low. Even if prices do continue to drop, you have to remember that you’re still scoring an amazing deal and purchasing a house for less than it’s worth!

Another reason to buy now rather than wait is because statistics show that renting is increasing in popularity. In order for homes to be available to renters, investors must purchase homes. Therefore, not only are average homebuyers snatching up great deals right now, but many investors are buying as well. It’s a buyer’s market, but that also means there are lots of buyers! By waiting, you might lose out on the home of your dreams.

The second concern you may have is that the real estate market will continue to worsen. I know, we keep hearing that the economy will improve, or already has, but it’s hard to find the proof. Still, looking at the situation logically, you purchase a home now that is within your financial means, and you live in it for numerous years. Because of the low mortgage rates, you might even get it paid off before you sell. Even if you don’t, as long as you keep up with your doable payments, your credit score will improve. It’s a win-win situation.

Even if the market hasn’t ended it’s downfall as of today, most homebuyers plan on living in their new homes for a many years to come. Chances are that by the time you’re ready to move, the market will have improved! Don’t give up the American dream because of an uncertain future. In the present moment, if you find a house that you love for a great price, let me help you in the buying process.

If you’d like more information on these topics, check out this video from CNNMoney.com, which discusses these issues in-depth with real estate experts. As always, I am your Santa Clara County Real Estate agent, here to make sure that local buyers find the best deals around in the Silicon Valley Real Estate market. I’m also here to make sure you find the home of your dreams, and the home you’ll want to spend many years of your life in, creating unforgettable moments and lasting memories.

Shannon Rose
Silicon Valley Real Estate Expert
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Increasing Your Silicon Valley Home’s Curb Appeal!

The summer real estate market is in full force here in Silicon Valley, meaning if you haven’t put your house in the Silicon Valley Real Estate market yet, now is the time to do so! The weather is warm, people are active and flowers are in bloom! This not only means that more buyers are actively taking advantage of the season in Santa Clara County, but also that summer is the perfect time for boasting your home’s curb appeal potential.
If you put your house on the market now, you’ll have the chance to show it off during the summer season. Take advantage of the season’s beauty! To help, I’m here as your Silicon Valley Real Estate agent to offer you tips and advice.

First off, I want you to walk to the end of your driveway, turn toward your house and just stare at it for awhile. Pretend you’re seeing it for the first time. This perspective will help you determine what on the house needs work. What will potential homebuyers notice when they see it for the first time? Fix the flaws and flaunt the perks!

Next, incorporate some of these affordable ideas into your front yard and exterior. A little change can go a long way when it comes to first impressions.

• Make the front entryway stand out. You want this to catch the buyer’s eye, because this symbolizes the gateway that will lure the buyer into your home rather than just driving by it. Pinpoint it by flanking the walkway with two large pots of colorful flowers, laying a clean, welcoming doormat, and trimming the grass leading to the walkway. By using flower pots, you don’t have to worry about digging up the grass or spending more money on perennials.

• Add a bench or garden ornament. This will add a welcoming, homey atmosphere to the yard. A bench will make the yard look livable and looks great under a large tree or on a covered front porch. A yard ornament, such as a birdbath or spinning wheel, adds color and texture to the yard.

• Emphasize the lawn. Midsummer dryness can cause grass to wilt or die if not cared for properly. Plan to water the grass regularly with sprinklers, preferably in the early morning or at dusk, when the sun’s rays aren’t as powerful. Mow it on a regular basis too, with the blade slightly raised. This will keep the grass at a length that looks alive and healthy.

• Spruce up what you already have. No need to purchase new trees or plant new gardens, especially if you already have foliage to work with. Consider laying fresh mulch around current trees and gardens. Trim bushes and trees so they look manicured and neat. If you decide to plant new flowers, plant them along the front walkway or driveway where they will gain immediate attention.

• Repaint what needs painting. This could mean your window shutters, garage door, front door, porch railing, driveway or the entire exterior. When you look at the house from the curb, take note at paint chips. If anything looks like it’s had a fair share of wear and tear, give it a fresh coat of paint, which is one of the simplest and cheapest upgrades you can make that results in a significant, positive change.

• Give everything a washing. If you’re sticking a “For Sale” sign in your yard, and you plan on hosting open houses, everything on the outside (and inside) of your home needs to look clean. Spray the exterior with a hose and use soap and sponges if needed. Wash the driveway, garage door, front door, mailbox, windows, walkways, exterior lights and lawn furniture. If you have a car in the driveway, wash that too. Make the whole scene look spic and span.

These ideas will get you on the right track toward gaining buyer interest and selling your home in Silicon Valley! As your Santa Clara County Real Estate agent, I can give you a fresh perspective on the appearance of your house, more curb appeal and selling tips, and insight into what current buyers are looking for from a Silicon Valley home. These are exciting times in the Silicon Valley Real Estate market, don’t let time pass you by!

Shannon Rose
Silicon Valley Real Estate Expert
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4th of July in Silicon Valley

Silicon Valley is full of life, preparing for its 4th of July holiday weekend! Just as the Silicon Valley Real Estate market bursts to life during the summer, so do festivals, concerts and parades. To make sure you don’t miss any of the events happening all over Santa Clara County this weekend, I’ve put together a list of where to watch fireworks, listen to live music, view a parade and savor festival foods. As your Silicon Valley Real Estate agent, I want you to enjoy the Silicon Valley area as much as possible!

Fireworks

If you enjoy fireworks, then you’ll be glad you live in Santa Clara County! You could enjoy fireworks Saturday through Tuesday if really want to go all out. Otherwise, numerous shows are available for you to choose from.

• California’s Great America theme park will host fireworks on Saturday and Sunday in honor of the holiday. However, if you miss them this weekend, they continue to shoot them off every Saturday night through August.

• Sports fans have the option of combining their love of the game with their love for fireworks! The San Jose Giants will shoot off fireworks after their July 4 and July 5 games against the Modesto Nuts.

• If you’re looking for good old-fashioned firework fun, head to Milpitas Sports Center Football Field for fireworks on July 4, which will coincide with music, or check out the San Francisco Symphony Shoreline Amphitheatre, which will feature fireworks and patriotic performances.

Concerts/Live Music

The 4th of July is a celebration for our country. There’s no better method of getting into the spirit of the holidays than by dancing, swaying or singing along to live music!

• Blackberry Farm is hosting a swimming, grilling and live music listening party from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., which will leave you with plenty of time to prepare for fireworks that night. The barbecue lunch is available for the first 800 attendees, so get there early! The Groove Kings will perform from noon to 3 p.m.

• For a more traditional July 4th concert, listen to the San Jose Wind Symphony perform, beginning at 1:30 p.m. on the Los Gatos High School front lawn. The show will include a combination of notorious patriotic songs, along with current favorites. It’ll even feature a grand finale, complete with cannons during an 1812 Overture.

Parades

What’s the 4th of July without a parade, right? They manage to squeeze music, performers, local businesses, political figures, costumes, decorative floats and lots of candy into one unforgettable event!

• Memorial Park begins their holiday celebrations with a pancake breakfast at the Quinlan Community Center’s Cupertino Room from 7 to 11 a.m. A flag will be raised at 9 a.m. at the Veteran’s Memorial and the Children’s Parade begins at 10 a.m. After the parade, The Peelers will perform at the Memorial Park Amphitheater.

• For a more official parade, head to Morgan Hill for the Santa Clara County Independence Day Parade. This celebration has been running yearly since 1876! With more than 2,500 participants, you’ll be sure to enjoy the float designs, band performances, horses and antique cars in the procession. Bring water to stay hydrated!

Festivals

Summer and festivals go hand-in-hand, and a holiday weekend is the perfect excuse to throw a fest full of food, entertainment, cocktails, games and plenty of community socializing.

• The highlight of the 30th Annual Summer Festival and Chili Cookoff in Palo Alto is the chili! Twenty teams will compete for the title of “Best Chili” at 1:30 p.m., while guests enjoy chili tasting, food booths, beer and margaritas, live music and children’s activities. The festival runs from noon to 5 p.m. at Mitchell Park.

• Kevin Moran Park in Saratoga will present a traditional fest from 9:30 to 11 a.m., honoring our country and everyone in it! A Color Guard will present a flag, a band and a youth chorus will perform patriotic songs and costumed individuals will be walking around as historical American figures. It’s entertainment and education all wrapped into one! Everyone will leave with a stomach full of free popsicles, and children will leave with a free flag. Wear red, white and blue!

Now that you know where all the 4th of July excitement is this weekend, go out and enjoy the holiday! But as your Silicon Valley Real Estate agent, I request that you let me know what events you went to and what the highlights of your weekend were. Once the excitement dies down, we’ll dive back into selling your Silicon Valley home or buying you a Santa Clara County home. You don’t want to miss out on the Silicon Valley Real Estate market while it’s hot! Happy 4th of July weekend, readers!

Shannon Rose
Silicon Valley Real Estate Expert
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Enjoy Mountain View's A La Carte & Art Festival!

The vibrant San Francisco Bay Area festival season kicks off with the 15th annual A La Carte & Art in Mountain View!

This popular Silicon Valley event runs May 21-22 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is free!


One of the great things about living in Silicon Valley are festivals like this featuring a diverse range of attractions and entertainment. A La Carte & Art offers more than you might expect! When we say "A La Carte", we mean mouth-watering gourmet fare including Thai delicacies to Greek specialties to German and French favorites. Variety is the order of the day with Cajun, Southwestern, and American foods that are sure to tempt every palate.

Ready for art? Stroll through 200 booths of the finest artisic creations, hand-made from nearly every material you can imagine. You'll find jewelery, wall decor, glasswork, sculptures, fountains, handbags, clocks, paintings, and more. Find a perfect gift, or indulge yourself by purchasing a one-of-a-kind work of art.

Not every art festival can boast a car show, but this one can! You can admire the classic beauties of the muscle car era along with head-turning custom street machines. Looking for more to do? Check out the Kid's Tons of Fun Zone, or the Green Products Showcase. Don't forget the farmer's market! When you're ready to dance, or just relax, find a favorite band from the eclectic live music lineup!

Events such as this are a fine example of the Silicon Valley lifestyle. There's never a lack of culture, events, or fine dining in the cities of Mountain View, San Jose or Palo Alto! It's one of the reasons that there are always buyers for homes in Silicon Valley! When you have questions about buying or selling a home in Silicon Valley, contact me for the best in professional, client-first service!

Shannon Rose
Silicon Valley Real Estate Expert
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Top Trends in Silicon Valley Real Estate Sales!

The latest data from the California Association of Realtors shows improving home sales for Silicon Valley! Here's a snapshot of month-to-month sales comparisons for single family homes, from February 2011 to March 2011:

• San Mateo: Median home prices increased 11.6%, from $623,000 to $695,000. Days on market improved from 33 to 27.

• Santa Clara: Median home prices increased 6.9%, from $525,250 to $561,500. Days on market improved from 39 to 27.

• Alameda: Median home prices increased 4.8%, from $458,060 to $480,250. Days on market improved from 96 to 74.

• San Francisco: Median home prices increased 12.1%, from $606,560 to $679,770. Days on market improved from 68 to 47.

Let me also explain that during this period in 2010, we saw higher market values, but this was due to the first-time home buyer tax credit that temporarily stimulated the market.

The tax credits prevented the market from experiencing quicker price reductions during the economic downturn, somewhat delaying the bottom. Now that the real estate market is operating under the "new normal" - absent of special tax incentives and under tighter credit - we can appreciate the significance of the recent month-to-month statistics.

In fact, San Francisco Bay Area real estate is a leader in the California housing recovery, showing an overall 9.7% sales price improvement from February 2011 to March 2011.

While the recent trends are positive, there are always individual considerations that come into play.

Location counts in today's Silicon Valley real estate market. For example, properties in a high-scoring school district enjoy strong attention. For other buyers, the commute and distance from their employment is more important.

The condition of the home affects the days spent on market and the final selling price. Homes that show "like new" get the strongest offers. Homes that need work tend to bring investor-minded buyers who are looking for discounts, whether or not the repairs have been factored into the price.

The size of a home creates price distinctions. Single-family, four-bedroom homes in good condition have strong pricing power. This is due to the fact there's little competition from rentals and condos. In contrast, a two-bedroom home faces more rivals for the housing dollar.

Sharing Bay Area real estate information is one of the many services I provide to my clients. If you are thinking of selling your Silicon Valley home, I encourage you to contact me today for a customized market analysis. I will listen to your needs and prepare a strategy for success in today's real estate market. Let my client-first philosophy help you sell with confidence!

Shannon Rose
Silicon Valley Real Estate Expert
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Ready, Set, Sell in Silicon Valley!

News of the record home sale in Silicon Valley is a conversation starter with Bay Area homeowners. Some are asking if it's a good time to put their home on the market. Others are wondering how much work their home needs to attract a buyer. As your Silicon Valley real estate professional, I can help you with those questions!

Here's why it might be a good time to sell your Silicon Valley home:      

Silicon Valley is a unique market thanks to the opportunities presented by our technology and venture capital industries. Silicon Valley is the destination of choice for high-tech talent.

Our home buyers come from around the world. The diversity of our home buyers makes our market more resilient, more dynamic, and more competitive. There are always buyers for Silicon Valley.

The improving job market in Silicon Valley bodes well for prospective home sellers. Strengthening employment trends nationwide mean more competition for skilled labor and improved relocation activity.

Home buyers with children usually plan to move during the summer months, to minimize the disruption of changing schools. These buyers are looking for homes right now.

Mortgage interest rates continue to be modest.  

As encouraging as the above points are, it can be daunting to consider selling your home. You may be concerned about how your property compares against the market. It may be unfeasible to spend a lot money on upgrades. You may have heard that today's buyers are selective and bargain-driven.

Don't worry - there's a buyer for every home, especially in Silicon Valley! Here's how to give your home a good "first impression" to a buyer:

• Tidy up the exterior. Remove weeds, trim hedges, and remove litter. 
• Walkways should be swept clean of debris. 
• Paint or re-stain a worn front door. 
• Add a colorful welcome mat to the front step.  
• Water exterior plants, grasses and shrubs to green things up.
• Use colorful potted plants to liven up a front entrance or patio.
• Wash windows. Replace faded curtains.
• Interior floors and counters should be clear of clutter.
• Mirrors, appliances, plumbing and lighting fixtures should be sparkling clean.
• Paint using neutral colors. Accent rugs and wall decor can perk up a  room. 
• Add finishing touches such as decorative guest towels and tabletop floral arrangements.

Is now a good time to sell your Silicon Valley home? The answer depends on your personal situation. The very first step in the process is to contact me for information about the Bay Area real estate market. As your Silicon Valley REALTOR®, I have the latest sales data and the local expertise you need.

Contact me today, and see how my client-first philosophy helps home sellers in Silicon Valley!

Shannon Rose
Silicon Valley Real Estate Expert
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Home Sale Sets Record in Silicon Valley!

In my prior blogs I've shared reasons why Silicon Valley is a great place to buy a home. I've also shared demographic info that supports the case for long-term rising values in Bay Area real estate. Another example to add is the recent purchase of a 100 million dollar home in Los Altos Hills by Russian investor Yuri Milner.

Milner is no stranger to Silicon Valley. He is the founder of Digital Sky Technologies, a Russian investment fund which holds stakes in companies like Facebook and Twitter. His purchase of the 18-acre, 25,500 square foot mansion has made him the owner of the most expensive single-family home in the United States.

The 100 million dollar price tag has caused sticker-shock response around the country. In today's market, why would Mr. Milner pay so much for a luxury home?

Maybe he knew a bargain when he saw one. Los Altos Hills has had a median price range of anywhere from $2,435,000 to over $3,000,000 in recent years. A quick look at luxury properties for sale in Los Altos Hills today shows a home on the market for $20,500,000. The least expensive home on the market in Los Altos Hills is a condo offered at $549,900.

As a professional investor, Milner has a knack for choosing young tech companies with strong growth potential. His success in venture capital placed him on the Fortune magazine list of the 50 Most Prominent Business People in the World for 2010.

Given this glimpse of Yuri Milner's professionalism, his 100 million dollar foray into Silicon Valley real estate should be recognized as a significant personal investment. No stronger vote of confidence could have been made. Certainly, his ongoing interest in Silicon Valley bodes well for the future of our high-tech start-up companies. It also bodes well for real estate!

The record home sale has put Silicon Valley in the spotlight once again. The price has amazed quite a few people! The good news is, if you're looking for a home in the San Francisco Bay Area, there are wonderful communities to choose from, and affordable homes in many price ranges.

Why not contact me today and take a look? As your Silicon Valley real estate professional, I have access to all the latest market data for Mountain View, San Jose, Palo Alto, and more! With my client-first philosophy, I'll provide you with the very best in service and information.

Shannon Rose
Silicon Valley Real Estate Expert
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Home Inspection Tips for Silicon Valley!

In today’s Silicon Valley real estate market, buyers want to have confidence in their home purchase. Sellers want to be sure they’re getting a good price. Whether you are buying or selling a home in Silicon Valley, you can benefit from a home inspection.

It may not occur to home sellers to order a home inspection before putting their property on the market, yet the strategy has merit. If a home inspection is performed by a buyer as a purchase contingency, you could end up with a surprise if an issue is discovered.

In the worst case scenario, a problem found in a home inspection may lead to a withdrawn offer. Why wait until the middle of the sale for a home inspection? It makes better sense to know up front if your home has any issues. Then you can determine if you should address those issues before placing the home on the market. Or you could decide to adjust your asking price accordingly.

In any case, disclosing known issues pertaining to the condition of your home is your obligation as a home seller. While a home inspection report does not replace your obligation, it shows you’ve gone the extra mile. This may help put a buyer at ease, and in turn, he or she may look upon your home more favorably.

Per a 2009 survey by the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, up to 80% of all homes for sale nationwide had pre-purchase inspections. As the use of home inspections became commonplace, the number of “home inspectors” grew dramatically. But just as real estate sales professionals like me have organizations like the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® to separate them from the crowd, home inspectors have their own associations and credentials. 

The California Real Estate Inspection Association, or CREIA, has served the California real estate industry since 1976. CREIA defines a home inspection as a visual examination of the structure and systems of a dwelling. In other words, your home and its mechanicals won’t be taken apart in the process.

These are the common inspection areas identified by CREIA:

•          Overall structural condition
•          Roof
•          Foundation
•          Drainage
•          Plumbing
•          Heating System
•          Central Air Conditioning System
•          Visible Insulation
•          Walls, Windows, Doors

Home inspectors are neutral third-parties and their task is to identify visual defects. A home inspection may result in nothing more than a list of maintenance to-do's.  Or, the report may reveal a more serious issue that needs attention. As a rule of thumb, it’s seldom cheaper to fix something later; a home inspection today could save you from more costly repairs tomorrow.

Selective home buyers in Silicon Valley know the importance of a home inspection. So do well-prepared home sellers! 

Of course, the importance of a good REALTOR® cannot be overlooked. As your Silicon Valley real estate professional, I’ll be with you throughout the entire buying or selling process. If you need a market analysis on your home, or if you’d like to see what’s new in Bay Area real estate, contact me! Let my experience and dedication to service help you reach your real estate goals.

Shannon Rose
Silicon Valley Real Estate Expert
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Protecting Your Credit in Silicon Valley!

Good credit is important when buying a home in Silicon Valley. Sometimes it takes a major purchase to make us think about our credit, but no matter your plans, you need to know what’s in your credit report. This sounds like common sense, but not everyone takes the time to review their credit. The risks of identity theft and credit fraud make it a necessity.  

Take a look at the big picture for a moment, and you’ll see what I mean. The Federal Trade Commission estimates that 9 million people each year become victims of identity theft. Undoing the damage caused by fraudulent use of your personal information can cost a great deal of time and money. Here are more facts from the FTC:

• Credit card fraud is the most common form of identity theft.
• Fraudulent new credit accounts took the longest time to discover.
• The longer the fraudulent activity continued, the higher the loss to the victim.
• 16% of fraud victims were victimized by someone they knew.
• 84% of fraud victims did not know who obtained their personal information. 
• Of the above, over half of the victims did not know how their info was stolen.
• 37% of fraud victims became alerted to the fraud by monitoring their accounts.

Our national affection for credit cards isn’t going away, however. The average American credit card holder has at least 3 credit cards, per a study conducted by the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston.

With these facts in mind, keeping an eye on your credit report is crucial. Fortunately, it’s also easy, and once every year, it’s free! And because I love to help Silicon Valley home buyers, I have this information handy. You can obtain a free copy of your credit report once each year at annualcreditreport.com. This website is a cooperative venture of all three major credit reporting bureaus, and is supplied as a public service.

Note that this free credit report will list your credit accounts and public records, but not your actual credit score. Still, it’s the right place to start to make sure your information is accurate.

If you wish to obtain a copy of your actual credit score, you can do so for a nominal fee by visiting MyFICO.com. FICO is the industry standard for numerical credit scoring. The site also provides useful credit tips that make it worth a visit.

Protecting your credit could help you buy a home in the Silicon Valley area. Helping Silicon Valley home buyers and sellers is my specialty! As your professional Silicon Valley Real Estate Agent, I will put my knowledge and experience to work for you. Contact me today for help with all your real estate goals!

Shannon Rose
Silicon Valley Real Estate Expert
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Short Sales in Silicon Valley!

While there are many good things to be said about real estate in Silicon Valley, the national downturn in the housing market has affected some homeowners in our area. As a Certified Distressed Property Expert, I understand the special challenges involved when the market value of a home will not cover the outstanding mortgage against it.  

A homeowner who has a property with an “upside-down” value may mistakenly believe they cannot sell the home. Misinformation by the media and uninformed advice from well-meaning friends can compound the discouragement. Too often, a sense fear or frustration can cause a homeowner to abandon their property to the foreclosure process.  

Having a Silicon Valley Real Estate agent on your side who is familiar with Short Sales can make all the difference. Here’s a basic rundown of what’s involved in the process.  

First, there is no one-size-fits-all. Every mortgage loan has different guidelines set by the respective bank, investor pool, and mortgage insurer. These include specific documentation requirements. Good communication is critical in the short sale process, as many points of contact may be involved.

The next step is determining what your home is worth on today’s market. A REALTOR® with distressed property experience is best equipped to make market value comparisons.  

Your property will then be listed for sale with the full-service, professional marketing you can expect from an experienced Silicon Valley Real Estate agent. 

When an Offer to Purchase is obtained from a qualified buyer, the offer will be submitted to the bank, along with specific information from you, and a letter that explains your hardship. This is the most detailed part of the process. 

What qualifies as a hardship may vary by the bank involved. Generally, hardships are recognized as follows:

                                       

• Permanent reduction of income
• Unemployment
• Divorce
•  Death of borrower/co-borrower
•  Permanent disability
•  Involuntary job transfer 

Additionally, your financial information must show that you do not have the ability to cover the difference between the selling price of the property and the mortgage balance. It must also show that you cannot maintain the mortgage payments going forward.   

To prove your financial picture, the bank will ask for the following documentation:

• Bank statements for checking, savings, and investment accounts
• Disclosure of debts and expenses
• Income tax returns for the past two years
• Paycheck stubs/proof of direct deposits
• Proof of adverse circumstance – divorce decree, job loss, ect.
• Your credit report may be pulled by the bank  

Your bank may ask for other information specific to your circumstances. The clock is ticking during the short sale process, and any time the bank makes a request for information, a prompt reply is necessary. Again, good communication is critical. Working with a professional Silicon Valley Real Estate agent who understands the process, and your personal needs, will give you the best chance for success.

Short Sales are complex but they are not impossible. Patience, experience, good communication and professionalism are traits of a good REALTOR® and they are especially important in the Short Sale transaction. If you have a Silicon Valley home that may need a Short Sale, please contact me for personal assistance. 

Shannon Rose
Silicon Valley Real Estate Expert
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Luck of the Irish in Silicon Valley!

St. Patrick’s Day is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in the world. It attracts celebrants from all ethnic backgrounds, and is observed in countries you may not expect, such as New Zealand, South Korea and Japan.  

The universal appeal of St. Patrick’s Day may be in the spirit of perseverance and luck that have connotations with the holiday. In fact, the phrase “Luck of the Irish” may have originated during the California gold rush, when many Irish immigrants pursued their fortunes in the gold and silver mines of the West.

 

The Irish-American heritage in the San Francisco Bay Area is represented in one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in North America, held annually since 1852. Like St. Patrick’s Day itself, the parade evokes a spirit of inclusiveness, drawing participants of all demographics and ethnicity.  

This year’s St. Patrick’s Day parade in San Francisco is expected to include 5,000 participants from all over the United States. The parade is Saturday, March 12, and will begin at 11:30 a.m., stepping off from the corner of Second and Market Street, ending at City Hall.

 

Irish-themed festivities continue throughout the day at the St. Patrick’s Day Festival at the Civic Center Plaza. This family-friendly event features live entertainment, arts and crafts, rides, cultural displays, and plenty of food and beverages.  

Whether you’re Irish or not, anyone can enjoy a St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Just as anyone can enjoy having the luck of the Irish!  After all, a large part of “luck” is being in the right place at the right time – and the right place, is wherever opportunity dwells.  

That would put the Silicon Valley Area amongst the luckiest places to be found!  The opportunities for employment, business start-up, and venture capital are unrivaled. The opportunities for Silicon Valley real estate are excellent as well!   

If you’re looking to buy or sell a home in Silicon Valley, you’ve come to the right place.  Contact me to work with the right Realtor – someone who will listen to your needs and put all their experience to work for you.  By being prepared and informed, you’ll be ready to make your own luck in Silicon Valley!

Shannon Rose
Silicon Valley Real Estate Expert
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Why REALTORS® Matter in Silicon Valley!

Buying or selling a home in Silicon Valley means entering into a large and complex financial transaction. There are a number of details that require careful handling throughout the process, including the negotiations, the sales contracts and the closing.

A good real estate agent will provide you the basic services to make your transaction successful. A REALTOR® goes well beyond the basics, staying ahead of the industry curve, and adhering to a strict Code of Ethics concerning the duty to our clients.

Why do REALTORS® matter? They matter because the practice of real estate is a skilled profession – not unlike the practices of medicine, law, and engineering.

A real estate professional who chooses to join the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (NAR) must abide by the 17 Articles and related Standards of Practice contained in the Code of Ethics. This code ensures that the best interests of the client are kept at the forefront of everything we do.

If a REALTOR® breaches an element of the Code of Ethics, he or she becomes subject to disciplinary action and sanctions. Being a REALTOR® means consistent dedication to the Code of Ethics for each client and every situation.

THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® first organizational body was created in 1908; the Code of Ethics was adopted in 1913. Today, over one million real estate professionals are members of NAR.

REALTORS® serve the interest of homeowners around the nation by staying informed and being proactive in regulatory issues that could impact home ownership. The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® provides important statistical information on sales volumes and industry trends to the government and the media. NAR is trusted as an objective source for facts concerning the condition of the real estate market.

THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® also provides its members with the latest updates in technology and educational resources. REALTORS® are equipped with the tools and information needed to provide excellent service to our clients.

When you consider the strength of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, and the dedication to the Code of Ethics that each REALTOR® must provide, it’s clear that working with a REALTOR® matters.

Buying or selling a home is a big decision. Shouldn’t you work with the best? When you’re ready to buy or sell in Silicon Valley, contact me to have all the advantages of working with a REALTOR®.

Shannon Rose
Silicon Valley Real Estate Expert
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Things to do in Mountain View!

Silicon Valley is well known for its high-tech image and high-profile employers. It’s natural to think of Silicon Valley as the unquestioned center of evolving technology. But with all the attention paid to the corporate and financial prowess of the area, it’s easy to overlook another benefit it has. Namely, it's a great place to live!

The communities of Silicon Valley offer a quality of life that suits every type of household, from the urban professional, to the growing family, to the retiree. The diversity of social and cultural opportunity offers something for everyone.

To show you an example, let’s take a look at Mountain View. The smart growth of this progressive city has enabled it to retain the original charms of its vineyards and orchards, while lacking nothing in modern amenities. This is just a sampling of what Mountain View living has to offer:

·         Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts: a beautiful, state-of the-art facility featuring performances by the nationally acclaimed TheatreWorks organization and the Peninsula Youth Theatre.

·         Shoreline Golf Links Division: a scenic, 18-hole championship level golf course, open 364 days a year.

·         Bay Area Bicycle Trails: connection to the vast San Francisco network of bicycle trails, encompassing several counties and 240 miles.     

·         City-wide WiFi: free wireless internet services are provided throughout most of the city, courtesy of an agreement between Mountain View and Google. 

·         Mountain View Skate Park: a skateboarding and rollerblading haven featuring a trick ramp, quarter pipes, and fun for all ages. 

·         Mountain View Senior Center: an all purpose facility offering programs and services for adults 55 and over, providing recreational, social, and educational opportunities. 

Additionally, Mountain View residents enjoy the use of a 70,000 square foot library, and have access to 32 city parks! And for a great experience in shopping and dining, there’s no better place to start than Mountain View’s pedestrian-friendly downtown.  

There is more to do in Mountain View than what I can list here! As your Silicon Valley real estate agent, I can tell you all about the great communities and wonderful homes in Santa Clara County. When you’re looking to buy or sell real estate in Silicon Valley, contact me, and let my knowledge of the area work for you! 

Shannon Rose
Silicon Valley Real Estate Expert
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Opportunity is Knocking in Silicon Valley!

Sales of single-family residential homes are on the upswing. The resurgence of Santa Clara County real estate is being led by the areas of Mountain View, Santa Clara, Campbell, Gilroy, and Cupertino, per year-to-year comparisons reported by the California Association of Realtors.   

Of these areas, Mountain View leads the way with a mere 63 days on market and a respectable median sales price of $891,000.

Not to be outdone, single family homes in Los Gatos priced under $2,000,000 are selling at two months on market or less, according to current data from Taketa, Miller & Associates. Meanwhile, higher-end homes in Los Altos Hills priced at $4,000,000 or more are also seeing improved market activity.

Naturally, there is variety in the Santa Clara County sales data depending on the property locale and the price range. What we are seeing is a gradual improvement in residential sales prices coupled with a reduction of days spent on market. When you add the current statistical trends to the historic strength of the Silicon Valley real estate market, it shows a sunny forecast for Spring home sales!

It’s no surprise that the demand for housing in Silicon Valley remains strong and will continue to grow.  While no area of the country was immune to the effects of a national recession, Silicon Valley has unique advantages over other markets.  Here’s just a few of the reasons why:

• Silicon Valley and the surrounding Bay Area ranks first in high-tech jobs nationwide, with 387,000 related positions.
• Silicon Valley has the highest concentration of high-tech workers in any metropolitan area, amounting to approximately 30% of its workforce.
• The average salary of a high-tech Silicon Valley employee was $144,800.00, according to a 2008 survey.
• Silicon Valley benefits from the favorable employment laws of California, which attracts highly-educated, highly-skilled workers.   
• The dynamic culture of Silicon Valley encourages start-up companies, who in turn have access to numerous venture capital providers.

All considered, it’s a good time to buy or sell a home in Silicon Valley!  As your Silicon Valley real estate agent, I understand the value of high-tech, but my business is built around personal service.  I invite you to review the testimonials from my prior clients.  Better yet, contact me today, and see for yourself how I can help you with real estate opportunities in Silicon Valley!

Shannon Rose
Silicon Valley Real Estate Expert
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Two Fold Benefits of Going Green in Silicon Valley

"Going green" in Silicon Valley has been happening for so long that it's not quite news anymore. This is far from a bad thing; it just puts us a step ahead of the smaller towns and neighborhoods who are just starting to take eco-living seriously. Silicon Valley residents have long been at the forefront of the Green movement - the very popular GoingGreen Silicon Valley event is about to be in its 5th year, local companies are at the top of the environment-friendly lists (such as San Jose's solar manufacturer SunPower which was ranked as #10 for clean-tech employers), and according to Popular Science Magazine, San Francisco ranks as the "2rd Greenest City in America." 

Therefore, it is no surprise that Silicon Valley homeowners are very good at putting forth green initiatives when it comes to their Silicon Valley homes.

An Eco-Conscious Tax Season

Now that it's February, we all have tax season on our mind. As responsible Eco-conscious citizens, Silicon Valley homeowners can actually be rewarded for their efforts through tax incentives.

A handful of energy efficient organizations have gathered together to form The Tax Incentive Assistance Project (TIAP). Although you may have been hearing that a lot of the incentives have expired, there are still a lot of notable tax incentives for the green-minded Silicon Valley homeowner.

Here are some of the best parts about the updates to the federal tax incentives for 2010 and 2011.

Tax Incentives are now going straight to the manufacturers. That means that when you want to buy that Energy Star dishwasher for your new Mountain View home, you can get it at a great price!

You can get up to $200 for making your windows energy efficient, $50 for efficient furnace fans, and $300 for water heater and wood heating systems.

New Silicon Valley homes can get up to $2,000 if they meet the eligibility requirements. (Please note that this incentive is for the home builder, not the homeowner).

Incentives aside, if you are living eco friendly for the right reasons, then the reward is knowing that you are really making a positive impact on our Silicon Valley community. Of course everybody wants to save money, but the great thing about living in Silicon Valley is that people have the best intentions when it comes to making the world a better place.

If you are considering buying or selling a Cambrian or Willow Glen home, then I would love to help you find what you are looking for. As an experienced Silicon Valley real estate agent, I can help you in every area of your home search. Whether its providing you with valuable information, showing you around the neighborhood, or helping you find the exact home you've been looking for. I'm always here to help, and you can contact me any time.

Shannon Rose
Silicon Valley Real Estate Expert
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The Glory of Silicon Valley Real Estate

Silicon Valley. The famed southern part of the San Francisco Bay area that has become known to all as the high-tech capital of the United States (and possibly the world). Silicon Valley is home to the city of San Jose, the southern Peninsula, the Southern East Bay, and all of the Santa Clara Valley.

You know Silicon Valley for its venture capitalism, dot-com bubble, and prestigious Universities (Stanford, University of California, Carnegie Mellon), but do you know Silicon Valley for its real estate, beautiful homes, and picture-perfect neighborhoods? If not, here is a little introduction to one of Silicon Valley's best areas, Mountain View Real Estate...

Mountain View sits at 12 square miles and is home to just under 74,000 residents. One of its most admirable qualities would have to be the lush orchards and vineyards that have stood the test of time through the high-tech revolution. It remained a primarily agricultural town all the way through the 60's, and even when it did transition along with the rest of Silicon Valley, it kept its natural beauty.

It is no surprise that this already attractive town slowly gained California real estate value as it added neighborhood parks and playgrounds, recreational facilities, a top notch education system, and shopping facilities throughout the years. Today, Mountain View real estate is a highly sought after commodity. The icing on the cake is when it earned the AAA credit rating, recognizing it for its diversified tax base, strong financial operation and a low debt burden (an honor afforded to only two other cities in California).

Ever the stable community, Mountain View was able to hold its own through the housing market ride over the past few years. It has shown the most stable market compared to other Silicon Valley neighborhoods. Its median sales price was able to go up instead of down during the 2009 market slide, and even now has been able to safely sit at $900,000 for single-family homes.

Natural beauty. A good education system. Affordable housing. A stable economy. What's not to love? If you would like to learn a little bit more about Mountain View Real Estate or are just curious about Silicon Valley and all its glory, please contact me. I'm always available to answer your e-mails or your phone calls.

Shannon Rose
Silicon Valley Real Estate Expert
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Welcome to the Silicon Valley Real Estate Blog!

This blog is your resource for Silicon Valley Real Estate. Here you will find a wide variety of useful information and resources designed to help you buy or sell a home more effectively in the Cambrian and Willow Glen areas of San Jose as well as Mountain View and Palo Alto in the Peninsula of Santa Clara County. From information on the local community, to advice about finding a mortgage or preparing your home to sell, it's all available here on my blog!

Shannon Rose
Silicon Valley Real Estate Expert
Visit My Silicon Valley Real Estate Website
Find Silicon Valley Area Listings